DESIGNER BRAND: Rosenfeld Genuine Alligator (interior stamp)
TYPE: Top handled brief satchel in a large size (a Rosenfeld signature frame; a protected bottom; very wide, tailored gussets). A rare collectible in this grand size and amazingly relevant style: one-of-a-kind, handcrafted per order.
CIRCA: 1960s
SKIN: American baby alligator (supreme, meticulously matched central belly skins of utmost symmetry; treated with highly coveted Bombe finish). Rare in this size.
METAL: Gold plated brass treated with the Rosenfeld signature lacquered enamel.
INTERIOR: Genuine leather (very spacious size; rich saddle color; a zippered pouch; three slip pockets).
CONDITION: Rare mint vintage condition that looks hardly used. Spectacular, amazingly pliable skins; pristine interior; strong top handle. Hard to believe it's about 50 years old.
HISTORY: Harry Rosenfeld Handbags, Inc. (1930s-1970s) was founded by Harry Rosenfeld in New York (135 Madison Ave). This creative brand specialized in unique, upscale handbags made from premium materials sold at Saks Fifth Avenue, B. Altman & Co., Lord & Taylor and Bonwit Teller. Their distinct features include top quality skins lap-polished by hand and treated with ultimate Bombe finish, the elaborate gold-plated hardware, lacquered enameled frames, rhinestone-encrusted clasps, Lucite and Bakelite accents, accessories, trimmed interiors and welted seams. In 1947, they participated in the Bloomingdale’s “Woman of Fashion” collection presented to the Metropolitan Museum of Art on its 75th Anniversary. In the 1970s, they collaborated with the glamorous New York jewelry designers, Kenneth J. Lane, who created a fantastic line of bejeweled evening purses for Rosenfeld. By far, Roselfeld is one of the most collectible vintage brands. (Copyright 1999-2012 Victoria Stowe. All rights reserved.)
BOOK: Read about this mid-century luxury brand in our fashion encyclopedia, "Exotic Skin Handbags: Alligator & Crocodile" by Victoria Stowe, on pp. 172-183. You're welcome to purchase an autographed copy of the book from our Malleries boutique.
