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| Purses Korean, 1850-1900 The Victoria & Albert Museum |
Purses such as these developed in Korea out of necessity as traditional Korean dress, called “hanbok”, did not have pockets. So, a purse was not only decorative, it was useful. A purse like those we see here was used by women. Typically, they were adorned with Buddhist motifs embroidered in gold and silk thread.
These purses of red silk satin, made between 1850 and 1900, are secured with decorative green knotted cord. They are emblazoned with multi-colored embroidery of rocks, waves, lotus flowers and the 'long life' character—“su,” which has been embroidered in gold above a lotus flower. An embroidered coin can be seen in the middle of a scene of rocks.
These purses were given to Queen Mary in 1924. Her Majesty bequeathed these along with many other items to the V&A in 1953.
These purses were given to Queen Mary in 1924. Her Majesty bequeathed these along with many other items to the V&A in 1953.
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