from a single manufacturer: Ed B Robinson, I was able to acquire, not only unused frames from the years of their production, but their discard pile. My metalsmith background enabled me to determine, and to share the clues of their evolution.  these frames, combined with my knowledge of metalsmithing enabled me to understand the evolution of the French frame design.

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• 1930-1940 French purse frames, with beads and beaded enamel combinations, we’re entirely handmade
• Beads were strung on, and attached to the frame with wires
• early frames that needed to be rounded had hand crimped edges
• Closures we center hinged drops. Underneath space bars kept the frame in place.
• beads were glass lined glass, and glass metal combinations. More expensive frames even used torse’ (twisted) beads, and french glass faux pearls
• side hinged

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later designs eliminated hand crimping, and were pressed into shape

• 1940-1950 transitioned to a top edge hinge, allowing the entire top of the purse to lift up
• Bead designs were completed first and then applied to the frame

• in addition to beaded designs, glamorous purses of this era used Italian cameos,French limoges and other decorative elements.

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1950’s and beyond

• as European labor became more expensive after WWII, the manufacturing of these elegant bags required cheaper labor costs. Ed B Robinson also became Prestige International made in Hong Kong, and Korea.