Vintage Gold-Tone Mesh Whitting & Davis Style Evening Bag
Accessory / Evening Bag (Mesh Link Construction) · Yellow Gold finish. Likely a thin electroplating or chemical vapor deposition over a base metal alloy.
Purity: Non-precious / Gold-plated base metal (Brass/Aluminum). It lacks karat hallmarks and shows surface chipping indicative of a coating rather than solid gold alloy.
Type
Accessory / Evening Bag (Mesh Link Construction)
Purity
Non-precious / Gold-plated base metal (Brass/Aluminum). It lacks karat hallmarks and shows surface chipping indicative of a coating rather than solid gold alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish. Likely a thin electroplating or chemical vapor deposition over a base metal alloy.
Weight
250g - 450g depending on frame composition and size (Heavy for its volume due to dense metal mesh).
Description
An iconic example of liquid-gold aesthetic, this mesh evening bag features hundreds of interlocking octagonal plates that shift and shimmer with movement. While not solid gold, its design mimics the opulence of the disco era, offering a tactile and fluid structure that feels like metallic silk.
Key Features
Interlocking octagonal 'tiles' or scales; highly flexible mesh body; reflective faceted surfaces; gold-tone finish that has developed a vintage patina.
Color & Finish
Champagne Yellow Gold with a high-polish finish. The surface shows significant wear, pitting, and 'brassing' where the underlying gray/brown base metal is visible.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None visible in the macro shot. Typically would feature a brand stamp like 'Whiting & Davis' or 'Oroton' on the interior frame or clasp.
Dimensions Estimate
Typical evening bag size: 6 inches width by 5 inches height. Mesh links are approximately 3mm to 4mm in diameter.
Gemstones & Inlays
None present. The aesthetic is purely metallic, relying on the light-reflecting properties of the faceted octagonal mesh links.
Clasp & Closure
Unknown from image, likely a kiss-lock or snap closure frame commonly found in mid-century mesh purses.
Chain & Links
Octagonal flat-faced mesh links joined by small metal rings (ring mesh construction). This creates a flexible, fabric-like 'drape'.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-assembled 'ring-and-tile' construction. The links are stamped from sheet metal and joined through a mechanical process designed for durability and high-volume production.
Authentication Indicators
The chipping/flaking of the 'gold' layer on the links is a primary red flag for non-solid gold. The lack of 14K/18K stamps on the links confirms it is a fashion accessory rather than fine jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely USA (Whiting & Davis) or Australia (Oroton). These makers dominated the high-end gold-tone mesh market.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (circa 1950s - 1970s). The specific octagonal mesh design was popular for disco-era and Hollywood Regency styles.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1960-1975 based on the link style and the significant oxidation/wear pattern of the plating.
Cultural Significance
Represented the 'glamour' of the mid-20th century social scene; these bags were staple accessories for red carpets and nightlife in the 1970s.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant plating loss (brassing) is visible on several links, showing the darker base metal underneath. Scratches and surface pitting indicate heavy use.
Value Estimate
$20 - $75 USD. Value is strictly in its vintage fashion appeal; it has no intrinsic gold melt value. High-end brands like Whiting & Davis in better condition command higher prices.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture and perfumes which accelerate plating wear. Clean only with a dry microfibre cloth; do not use ultrasonic cleaners or abrasive polishes which will strip the remaining gold layer.
Similar Items
Sterling silver chainmail bags (more expensive), 18K solid gold woven purses (extremely rare/museum pieces), contemporary sequin bags.
Interesting Facts
Metal mesh bags first became popular in the late 19th century using sterling silver, but the development of automated 'ring mesh' machines in the early 20th century made gold-tone base metal versions widely accessible.