Handbags
Handbags reflect the growing mobility of women during the 19th century, as well as the absence of functional pockets in fashionable women’s dress. Examples in the Fox Collection range from delicate beaded reticules to playful high‑fashion clutches.
Research and cataloging of the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection is ongoing, and our records may be incomplete or evolving. In keeping with our educational mission, we strive to make as much of the collection accessible online as possible. Doing so sometimes requires flexibility in traditional metadata and cataloging standards. We welcome feedback that may help enhance the accuracy of our records and deepen understanding of the collection.
Please note that this online gallery may contain images, language, or visual material that some viewers may find offensive, derogatory, or disturbing. All images, titles, and inscriptions reflect the historical context in which they were created and do not represent the views or values of the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection.