Glossy brown alligator handbag with flap closure by Loewe (now a part of LVMH), circa early 1940s vintage.

Machine age/ modernist gold tone metal coil inspired hardware including turn- lock latch closure and strap adjustment buckles.

Wonderfully matched body panels create very symmetrical and consistent look to this über- luxe bag.

Underside of strap and flap are leather, interior is doeskin lined with several narrow pockets on the walls. Embroidered fabric "Loewe Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian" label on the interior, as shown.

Front, back, and sides of body are fairly supple, with rigid bottom panel.

Strap allows for hand or forearm carrying and can comfortably fit on the shoulder of a small frame. Tapered width, widest at top center for comfort.

Condition: Bag shows edge, crooner, and strap wear- please see photos. Pale interior has darkened from use. Gold hardware is still surprisingly shiny with light pitting and wear. Alligator scales are shiny and show no cracks. Tonal leather piping along the side seams does show more scuffing/ flaking. There is a surface crack to the top center of the strap, ass shown; the leather underside is perfectly firm.

While not perfect, this has a decidedly "old money" vibe, like it was inherited from a great aunt or grandmother who traveled the world. A very useable- daresay modern- size and shape- this scarce and luxe Loewe alligator bag is an absolute classic!

Measurements:

10- 5/16" across the top edge of the flap, 10- 1/2" across the bottom edge

6" high

3- 1/8" deep (at bottom) 

strap is 16- 1/2" in length end to end (including hardware), with 6- 1/4" drop from center