A GOLD AND CULTURED PEARL MESH PURSE, LATE 19TH CENTURY
Comprising a 22k gold frame with cultured pearl accented clasp, a 20k gold mesh body, a 20k gold mixed-link chain, with two interior compartments, with assay mark, measures 5 1/2 x 4 1/2 in., chain length 12 in.
Footnotes:
A family full of entertainment history, the Gould & Brettauer jewelry collection highlights the lives of Aunt Margarete Mosheim Gould and Father Erwin Brettauer.

Margarete became a prolific actress in the 1930s taking the German and English stages by storm and befriending other major influences in the scene including Marlene Dietrich and Max Reinhardt. In the late 1940s she married American Industrialist and financier Howard Gould in London.

Erwin Brettauer began his life in Germany and built his family fortune by founding the Bank on the Banhofstrassein Switzerland. Throughout his life he continued to invest in Weimar German movies but he is most well-known for his 1942 purchase of the Chateau Marmont in Hollwood where he actively changed the segregation polices of this hotel and influencing others in the area.


OVERALL CONDITION:
Metals tested for 22k and 20k gold; clasps secure; a few links of mesh body have separated from each hinge of frame, while overall condition of mesh body is good; superficial wear in the form of minor scratches; overall good condition.

CULTURED PEARLS:
Average Dimensions/Diameter: 3.25mm
Shape: round
Body Color and overtone: white with pink overtones
Luster: good to excellent

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Approximate gross weight: 254.7 grams

This condition report is provided for your convenience based on the opinion of our gemologists. Bonhams is not responsible for any discrepancies between this information and other opinions.