Hand pleated wool handbag embellished with newest antique African trade beads

A truly unique ethnic handbag. Made of hand pleated wool and fully lined, it has been embellished with African beads. Despite being called "African" trade beads, these were actually manufactured in Europe, especially in Italy, from the 16th thru early 20th centuries for trade with Africa. They are part of a group of beads that were owned by the J Camp Gallery. These particular beads are hard to date exactly but are likely from the late 1800s to early 1900s. They are in excellent condition, even though they have travelled three continents: Europe to Africa to North America.

The bag was made by my mother, Kay Camp. As long as I can remember she collected fabric, and created interesting and beautiful things from it. Her statement about her work follows:
"Fabrics and how they change when cut, draped, folded, pleated, stitched, etc. have always fascinated me. Color, pattern and texture are the first things I notice. My handbags are a reflection of this fascination.I have always collected fabrics---antique ethnic, hand made, embroidered, embellished, traditional printed, silk screened, tie dyed. It may be just a piece of fabric or an old garment; a contemporary print or a 40's, 50's or 60's fabric. Techniques I use include piecing, pleating, strip weaving, padding, hand made and machine embroidery and quilting, and embellishment with beads, shells, antique jewelry and other found objects. Bags are created as one of a kind or limited edition pieces. All are signed. Editions are limited to 10 of a design and are numbered accordingly. Even so, because of materials and techniques used, no two are exactly alike."

This bag measures newest approximately 8.25 inches wide by 8.5 inches tall. Cannot be gift boxed but will be wrapped in kraft paper.