Miser's purse
early 19th century
Classification
costume & accessories
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Albert Blum
Accession Number
1953-106-68
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection of costume and accessories! This *Miser's Purse*, dating to the early 19th century, exemplifies a clever personal accessory from a time when everyday items blended practicality with subtle artistry. Named for the stereotypical "miser" who guarded their coins tightly, these purses typically featured two compartments accessed via a sliding ring or steel frame, allowing users to separate money—perhaps for spending versus saving—in an era before modern wallets. Though the artist remains unknown and research is ongoing, the purse reflects early American domestic craftsmanship, likely handmade by women at home using techniques like knitting, crocheting, or beading (medium details pending further study). Such items were fashionable among both men and women in the early 1800s, highlighting the era's resourcefulness amid growing consumer culture and the Industrial Revolution's influence on daily life. Generously donated by Mrs. Albert Blum, this piece invites us to ponder the intimate stories behind ordinary objects—how they secured fortunes, sparked conversations, and preserved privacy. Stay tuned as curators uncover more about its origins!
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...