220 - Set of thirteen mesh coin purses, first half of the 20th century.

Set of thirteen mesh coin purses, first half of the 20th century. Made of silver. Several pieces retain hallmarks, as well as marks of origin and silver fineness. In good condition. They show patina and isolated signs of wear on some of the mesh and mountings, consistent with their age and use. Total weight: 541 g. Measurements: approximately 7 x 8 cm to 12 x 7 cm. Provenance: Family bequest of Ramon Martí Alsina and Ricard Martí Aguiló. An art and heritage collection whose origins lie in the legacy of the Catalan painters Ramon Martí Alsina (1826–1894), a key figure in 19th-century Catalan realism, and his son Ricard Martí Aguiló (1857–1935). Passed down and enriched over successive generations, the collection brings together works from the original estates of both artists, along with new acquisitions made by their descendants. The descendants maintained a special dedication to the preservation and restoration of the family legacy, acquiring works by the painters themselves as they came onto the market and progressively expanding the collection with paintings, sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and other objects of artistic and historical interest. A set of thirteen silver coin purses, with bodies formed of fine ring mesh and hinged clasp closures. They feature different designs, some with plain settings and others decorated with floral and plant motifs engraved or in relief. This type of small mesh purse became widely popular between the late 19th century and the early decades of the 20th century as a women’s accessory. Several examples bear stamped marks, including “800” and “GERMANY.”