“Stop to admire this exquisite reticule, a 1998 handbag by John Galliano. Its elegant silk pouch and sculptural, vine-like handle showcase a blend of romance and meticulous craftsmanship, characteristic of late 20th-century high fashion.”
This delicate reticule, a small handbag, captures the playful elegance that defined the late 1990s. Crafted from silk, metal, and resin, its most striking feature is the intricate, almost sculptural handle, which twists and turns like a vine. The bag's body itself is a soft, gathered pouch, suggesting a preciousness meant for evening wear or special occasions. This piece was part of a spring/summer collection from 1998, a period when fashion was embracing both historical romanticism and a fresh, modern sensibility. Its design demonstrates a thoughtful blend of luxurious materials and imaginative form, transforming a functional accessory into a miniature work of art.
- Artist
- John Galliano
- Date
- 1998
- Medium
- silk, metal, resin
- Location
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
What to Notice
Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Examine the delicate, organic shape of the metal handle.
Note the subtle sheen and gathering of the silk fabric.
Look for the small, almost hidden resin details on the handle.
Observe how the bag's structure combines rigidity and softness.
John Galliano
1960 · United KingdomJohn Galliano, the British fashion rebel, transformed haute couture at Givenchy and Dior with his dramatic, historically inspired designs.
Further Works by Galliano
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