Vtg 70s Mexican Tooled Leather Saddle Bag Purse Jalisco Floral Crossbody Boho 9\" For Sale

Mexican Jalisco Floral Tooled Leather Shoulder Bag / Artisan Leatherwork

A wonderfully unusual piece of Mexican leatherwork featuring deeply tooled / embossed floral decoration, dramatic dark leather lacing and the name “Jalisco” across the front flap.

This bag has an especially substantial, sculptural appearance.

The warm cognac-brown leather has developed natural variation and patina that gives portions of the surface an almost carved-wood appearance. From the side, the thick structured construction and contrasting dark lacing make it look as much like a decorative leather object / souvenir as a handbag.

The front and reverse feature large floral motifs, while additional tooling continues around the sides. The entire perimeter is finished with wide dark leather whip-lacing, creating a strong rustic handmade look. A metal clasp secures the flap and the bag includes its leather shoulder strap.

Front flap features distinctive dark ‘Jalisco’ script that appears hand-burned into the leather.

Jalisco is a state in western Mexico with a continuing tradition of artisan leather goods. Similar floral-tooled bags are produced today by leather artisans in Guadalajara and Tonalá, Jalisco. No maker\'s label or identifying tag was found on this particular bag, so no specific artisan or exact production date is being attributed.

This is especially appealing because it doesn\'t have to be used strictly as an everyday purse. It would make a striking decorative display piece hung from a wall hook, peg rail or vintage coat rack, or displayed in a Western, Southwestern, Mexican, hacienda, rustic, eclectic or bohemian interior. It could also work beautifully as photography or wardrobe styling, shop/display decor, cabin or ranch decor, or as part of a collection of vintage leatherwork.

Approximate Measurements

Width at widest point: 9.5\"

Height: 7.5\"

Search/style terms: Mexican leather bag, Jalisco Mexico, tooled leather purse, embossed floral leather, carved leather, hand tooled style, laced leather bag, whipstitched leather, Western purse, Southwestern bag, boho leather bag, rustic leather, artisan leatherwork, Mexican decor, hacienda decor, cowboy Western decor, equestrian style, saddlebag style, floral shoulder bag, cognac brown leather, folk craft, collectible leatherwork.

Pre-owned condition with age-appropriate patina, leather surface variation, production marks and wear that contribute to the rustic character of the leather. Hardware shows age, but no signs of actual everyday use. Please review all photographs closely for condition and construction details.