Design for a Metal Bag or Purse Handle with Stacked Coin Motif and Central Rosette 17th century

This is a design for a metal bag or purse handle, drawn anonymously with pen and brown ink on paper. Notice the stacked coin motif along the handle's edge, punctuated by a central rosette. Coins, beyond their monetary value, have long symbolized prosperity, security, and even power. The repetition of the coin motif speaks to a desire for abundance, a visual echo of wealth. Now, consider how these stacked coins might resonate with similar patterns across time. Think of ancient Roman mosaics where repeated tesserae created intricate patterns, or even the stacked forms in ritualistic objects from various cultures. The rosette, a stylized flower, often embodies notions of perfection, cyclical renewal, and divine grace. These symbols, deeply rooted in our collective memory, engage us on a subconscious level, evoking a sense of hope and aspiration. This handle is not merely a functional object, but a potent symbol, reflecting the eternal human desire for prosperity.