ESSE Purse Museum & Store ESSEWARE Betsy Davis Print: Mary Grace Hollins (1900s)

This original illustration by artist Betsy Davis was inspired by the turn of the 20^th century. Featuring a canteen-shaped purse made from suede and celluloid, this drawing is entitled “Mary Grace Hollins” from Baltimore, Maryland and perfectly captures the 1900’s woman. Her handbag was compact yet practical, used for small items like a notepad or coins. From her cat to her coat, Davis illustrates a woman at the dawn of a new century.