1930s Cream Mirco Beaded Art Deco Bag

There is nothing better than finding things in old bags and purses! This beautiful late 1920s, early 1930s beaded bag was holding a wonderful secret; an original gentleman's calling card! The sleuth in the HV family did some research on Francis J. Popham and found out the following:

Francis James Popham was born in Cornwall in 1871, joined the London Yeomanry in the early 1900's, and retired in 1912 as a Lieutenant. On the outbreak of WW1 he joined the Royal Fusiliers, and later the Royal Lancaster Regiment. He served in France, and in August 1918 aged 48, he was given command of a regiment that was involved in the battle of Rennecourt. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and retired from the Army in 1921.

Popham had been a stockbroker and Director of Trust, and would travel to Canada and America, giving the Carlton Club as his address on ship passenger lists. He is seen on a list going to Canada on the 25th August 1934 aged 63. The Carlton Club was a gentleman's club on pall Mall, described as the oldest and most important of all Conservative Cubs'. On the 14th October 1940, the club took a direct hit in the Blitz and was destroyed. 

in the 1939 register, it states Popham moved to Paddington and appears he never married. There is also no precise date listed of his death. This means that the card is dated at the latest 1939. I would be led to believe that due to the inscription 'All The Best' this was given as a gift, rather than in courtship.

Regardless of the amazing history behind the piece, it is a beautiful example of art deco beading, and is in such wonderful condition so must have been cherished by the owner and handed down in the family. 

Please get in touch if you have any questions.