The newest book on antique purses, there is a special emphasis on very early antique purses.  Contains previously unseen purses from private collections that have never before been published.  There is a chapter dedicated to restoration of vintage bags, with instructions for repair and cleaning, plus photos; tips when purchasing bags; and choosing the right purse frames.

A fabulous book on antique beaded purses, it has over 600 detailed color photographs and includes information on care, history, and design techniques.  Includes a current value guide.  I would strongly recommend buying this book before investing in a collection.

Don't let the title fool you - this book covers both Whiting & Davis and Mandalian mesh purses.  The first-ever book devoted solely to mesh purses.  Includes a price guide.  

This book is devoted to vanity bags and includes no other kind of purses.  However, it is definitely the best source of information on vanity bags.  Includes a price guide but is somewhat out of date as the book was published in 1994.  The book is currently out of print but can be found used through Amazon.com.

This reference book is "the definitive book on antique handbags."  Best source for a history of bags and frames.  Beautiful pictures.  Unfortunately, no price guide. 

Second book by Lynell Schwartz has sections on beaded, mesh and dance purses.  Many examples pictured in this book have never been seen before, some of them dating to the 18th century.

Covers a wide variety of antique purses including beaded, mesh, petit-point, tapestry, and embroidered.  Includes historical information on the factories that made the purses.  This is the 2nd edition of the book, with price guide revised in 2004.