1987.183.1 a-b; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Biege Handbag
Artifact ID1987.183.1 a-b
Object Type
Purse
Gifter
Giovanni Leone
Date
before 1975
Medium
leather, metal, gemstone, wool
DimensionsOverall (purse) H 12 1/2 in x W 9 in x D 2 3/4 in (31.8 cm x 22.9 cm x 7 cm )
Overall (tote) W 15 3/4 in x D 3 1/2 in (40 cm x 8.9 cm )
Physical DescriptionAn ivory purse has a short handle attached to the front flap with rose gold hardware. A matching chain is attached, and a square rose gold clasp fastens shut with a rectangular knob made of tigers-eye stone.Overall (tote) W 15 3/4 in x D 3 1/2 in (40 cm x 8.9 cm )
Historical NoteItalian President Giovanni Leone gifted this purse to First Lady Betty Ford. On September 25, 1975, President and Mrs. Ford hosted a state dinner for President Leone and his wife, Vittoria Micchitto Leone. Three days later, Betty Ford underwent a biopsy and subsequent mastectomy. During her hospital stay, President Ford brought this purse; it is likely that she had not seen the state gift before being admitted to the hospital.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteA foreign official gifted the item to First Lady Betty Ford during the Ford Administration. It was presented to her and was maintained at the Executive Office of the President until its transfer to the National Archives in 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesHead of State Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status
Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
Collections
Exhibitions