From when did humans start carrying handbags?
Imagine a life without handbags. Tough to think, right? They are an essential in our daily lives and an important fashion statement, thanks to the iconic designs by luxury brands. But these seemingly modern carriables have a long history dating back to the ancient times. The first handbags were made in Egypt 5000 years ago and were used by men only. Quite intriguing, huh? There are many more fascinating facts about handbags to explore. So, buckle up, and let's take a tour through the rich history of handbags and discover how they became the must-have accessory they are today!
Pouches in the ancient days
Purses have been around for thousands of years, beginning in Ancient Egypt. But how do you think this fact was discovered? Archaeologists found a handbag with a mummy! Otzi the Iceman is Europe's oldest natural mummy. When he was discovered in 1991 on the border between Austria and Italy, a handbag was found beside him. It was made out of chamois hide, a type of leather made from the skin of a mountain goat, with a strap attached to it. Quite similar to modern handbags, right? More evidence of the use of handbags in the Ancient Egyptian civilization can be seen in ancient Egyptian paintings (hieroglyphs). Men are seen carrying pouches around their waists. Even in their biblical texts, Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus, is depicted holding a purse. During this time, handbags were only made for men.
Women started carrying purses the Middle Ages
Purses became common for both men and women as civilization progressed to the Middle Ages. The purses were made from round leather pieces with strings attached at the top. However, they were only large enough to hold coins. In 1300 AD, purses decorated with gold and silver court scenes were made. A purse made of brass and inlaid with gold and silver was first discovered in Northern Iraq. During the Middle Ages, bags were no longer just for carrying money. They also held significant symbolic value. They had become a sign of power and status. The designs evolved. Purses embroidered with love stories and other story-telling art became popular.
Satchels of the Renaissance
From the 16th century onwards, men stopped carrying purses. This shift occurred due to the fashion that emerged at the time. Women wore huge puffy skirted dresses that made carrying small purses difficult because they got tangled with their clothing. So, large purses, also known as satchels, were created as a fashion fix during the Renaissance. Interestingly, these handbags contributed to the women's equality movement. They gave women a sense of liberation by allowing them to carry their own money and possessions without any dependence on their husbands.
Men's fashion evolved as well and pockets were invented in 1670. So, they no longer had to carry purses to hold money. Instead, small pouches that are now known as wallets today became common. Men took their money in wallets that fit perfectly in their pockets.
Rise of modern purses
As satchels and purses rapidly gained popularity worldwide, the introduction of railway system in the 19th century further revamped purses. People began referring to their luggage as handbags because they were carried by hand. That is how the term 'handbags' came into use! Several handbag designs emerged in the 1960s and 1970s. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), wicker, and leather were some of the materials used to make handbags.
Towards the end of the 1970s, shoulder bags with pockets and zippers made an entrance. Their appearance boosted the popularity of men’s purses or man handbags. Leaving the house or seeing a fashion ensemble without a handbag seems strange today. There are no gender restrictions when it comes to handbags these days. Everyone carries a bag to keep their electronic devices, books, and other stationery. This is how necessity and fashion shaped and revolutionised the designs of purses through ages.
Bonus fact: Iconic French fashion designer Louis Vuitton began his career as a luggage maker in the 19th century.