Bienen Davis was founded in New York City in 1931. It's founders merged American design with Italian craftsmanship and their bags were soon all over Hollywood and adored by celebrities the world over. At some point (late 60's early 70's?) the brand went dormant until fourth generation great grandson, Richard K. Bienen, revived the house in 2017. Many of the new designs are based on their vintage bags; it's so beautiful to see a brand embrace and elevate it's history to the level they have...I actually teared up when I visited the website!
This vintage 1960's Bienen Davis foldover clutch is almost the exact replica of the modern "PM Clutch" on their website, which was named after his mother, model Patricia (Pat) Mori who was muse to none other than Roy Halston (the last photo is Halston, Nancy North, Pat Mori, and fashion illustrator Joe Eula arriving at “Magic, Fantasy and Dreams,” a costume-ball benefit for the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture in 1975).
This vintage original is an Italian folk art tapestry print in soft autumnal tones with beige silk satin lining. It has the same shallow exterior zipper pocket as the modern version & a hidden flap pocket for glasses (may or may not fit your phone, see measurements below). We found this with a vintage comb with it's own rococo tapestry case inside, although it most likely did not come with the original purse. This is a true relic and an important piece of this brand's history. Visit their archives page to see more lovely vintage Bienen Davis bags over the last 9 decades.
- Measurements: Width across top: 7 1/2" Width at base: 9" Depth: 10" Zipper Pocket: 5.5" wide x 3.25" deep Flap pocket 2 3/4" wide x 6.5" deep
- Condition: Excellent. Very slight discoloration on lining, barely visible.
- PRICE: $325.00
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