Beaded Purse c. 1940

Stella Mosher crafted this Beaded Purse, sometime between 1855 and 1995 and with beads of course. The process of making something like this feels like a conversation, each bead a word, each row a sentence, building up to something both useful and beautiful. Up close, you can almost feel the texture, right? Imagine the slightly rough feel of each tiny bead, cool to the touch, catching the light. The colors are muted, soft pinks and grays, with that stripe of darker brown bisecting the object, anchoring it, creating a satisfying tension. Look at the way the beads are arranged to create patterns, tiny crosses and geometric shapes. Each tassel hangs just so, a playful touch. It’s not just a bag; it’s a sculptural object. You know, looking at the surface of this purse I am reminded of the work of contemporary artist Liza Lou who also works with beads on a grand scale. But the domestic scale of this object is part of what gives it such appeal. It’s like a little secret, a treasure, a way to carry a bit of beauty with you.