This superb 1980's Sharif patchwork leather purse is a perfect example of why Sharif handbags are celebrated for their artistically detailed styling, their versatility and the quality of the material. As expected, there is the WOW Sharif accent of the long fringed leather tassel attached to the top zipper. Three beads are also featured on this statement tassel.
Using neutral colors of beige, tan, metallic cream and brown, the front pattern is a patchwork of yummy textures and materials, from fabric to leather. Be sure to examine the detail photos for a better idea of how much detail has gone into this design.
For the front the pattern is a woven mélange, but not in any traditional woven pattern. This weave is in interesting wavy rows. For the sides, back and bottom the leather is the soft semi-metallic leather. The only accent there is at the back side zipper, which features the animal print texture.
The interior is smooth leather for the interior. There is one inside zippered pocket.
As you can see, the original Sharif logo tissue is still inside this purse. If the purse was used at all, that was sparingly and it was stored well by the original owner.
You will be very pleased with the Pristine vintage quality of this Sharif purse, which shows no signs of use or prior ownership.
The purse measures approximately 14 inches wide by 9 and 1/4 inches high. It is 3 and 1/4 inches deep at the bottom.
There is a full top zipper to hold the bag closed.
The completely removable handle is 49 inches long. As can be seen in the photo this handle is long enough that the bag can be used cross body or worn on the shoulder.
With the handle removed, this becomes a clutch purse. Clutch style bags were quite popular in the mid to late 1980's.
The purse is in Excellent Vintage Condition.
As can be seen, the outside fabric is still in remarkable "as new" shape. The inside fabric is likewise clean, with no stains, tears or odors. All of the stitching is intact, there is no rubbing evident on the corners and the zippers work smoothly.
Sharif was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt and was the only son of a handbag manufacturer. Sharif arrived in New York City in 1974 went to work for Finesse, the exotic handbag company. He quickly developed a reputation for quality and dedication to his customers, by upgrading original bags with superior leather and finer hardware. By 1979 he had his own company established in New York and during the 1980's his designs ranked up there in the high-end handbag category.
Please let me know if you have questions or want to see further photos before you choose to make your purchase.
This item is sold from a vintage boutique in Bradenton, FL.
