Bags of Style |Impecable Provenance

Eva Braun's clutch bag. The 1930s evening - or 'envelope clutch' bag in white silk with gilt beadwork, fastened with a double-headed gilt clasp. To the inside, a single pocket and label which  reads 'EVA BRAUN OBERSALZBERG.'  The luxurious 'Hollywood style' being typical for the period. The quality of the beadwork indicates the bag was possibly designed by Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, or Richard Koret [see note].

Size approximately 25.0cm x 10.0cm.

A soft-focus, portrait photograph of Eva Braun by Hoffmann is also included in the sale. In contrast to the evening bag, and in typical period-style, the print [on Agfa paper], shows Eva Braun dressed in understated daywear. The brooch to the right shoulder being a nod to the ' Hollywood effect'

Size 21.5cm x 16.5cm.

Condition report: The evening bag in overall very good to excellent condition. Free from damage, and with just light age. The photograph clean.

Provenance: Acquired by an officer with the US Army, serving with the 1st battn, 3rd Infantry Division. In a a letter dated 3.22.79, the officer confirms  he acquired various souvenirs from the Obersalzburg complex, when his unit entered on May 4th, 1945. The part- listing of items refers to "A purse belonging to Eva Braun". A copy of the letter is included with the sale.

Note: In addition to their own 'couture brand,' Richard Koret, [Koret Inc], was the licensee for Christian Dior and Hubert de Givenchy.