1950s Black Fabric Handbag by Ingber, USA
Description
We love the bold shape and unusual design of this striking handbag! It bears the label of American company Ingber & Co, which was in existence for over half of the twentieth century. The company was founded in 1903 by brothers Isaac and David Ingber, and by the 1940s it had a showroom on Fifth Avenue, New York, whilst being based in Philadelphia (where the factory was located). Growing foreign competition during the 1960s contributed to the factors behind the company's closure in 1966. It had remained a family company over its lifetime, with several generations employed within the business. It had also been a recognised leader in the handbag industry, and had even been asked to produce bags to be used in Hollywood films, including 'Around the World in Eighty Days' (1956). This Ingber handbag displays a feature which was frequently seen in fashion accessories of the 1940s and 1950s (particularly those produced in America). This was the use of a plastic, which tends to be generally referred to by the trade name 'Lucite'. The plastic section in this case forms the upper part of the curving handle - it has been slotted into the metal frame, whose gleaming goldtone finish contrasts with the pearlised effects and whitish hue displayed by the plastic. The body of the bag is made from robust black wool fabric, which feels felt-like to the touch. The bag is a 'bucket' style in a relatively compact size, and it has a flat base (allowing it to sit easily). However, it is the top of the bag which we find particularly appealing, as there is no clasp to open and close. Instead, the two sides of the fabric are simply folded one over the other - the rich texture of the fabric, and the neat way in which the back section covers the front one, provides the bag with a secure closure, plus an attractive design feature. Lifting the wool fabric sections reveals an interior lined with glossy and luxurious black satin. There is one pocket (with a goldtone edging), containing a matching satin coin purse. The purse is secured to the pocket via a gold-coloured cord. Printed onto the satin bag lining is the 'INGBER MADE IN U.S.A' trademark.
Manufacturer: Ingber
Country of manufacture:
USA
Price: £82.00
Product ref: B358
Condition
Excellent. The wool fabric body of this handbag has survived in highly desirable condition, as it appears to be untouched by the passage of time! The fabric has suffered no damage or marking, and there are no weakened areas - even the base shows no rubbing or wear. The black colour of the fabric has retained its depth and intensity throughout. The sections of fabric which fold over to secure the top of the bag are robust, and they stay shut. The handle is strong and firmly attached to the bag body. Close examination of the metal and plastic sections reveals very superficial wear, but this is difficult to notice, and their surfaces remain smooth and bright. The satin fabric interior is in pristine condition, reinforcing the impression that this bag was seldom used. The coin purse shows only very slight evidence of age or wear, and it is still securely held via its gleaming, gold-coloured cord. In our view, the appeal of this Ingber handbag lies not just in its well-preserved condition, but also in the eyecatching impact created by its stylish design!
Material: Fabric, plastic and goldtone metal exterior, fabric interior
Measurements: w:170mm x h:170mm x d:110mm. Plus handle drop of 100mm
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