Monday, January 23, 2012

The Rahab Bag "Butterfly" ~ Monyan Forevermore Collection 2011 (NFS)

The Monyan Forevermore Collection is composed of 5 handbags, each individually unique in style, all of which are composed of fabric belonging to my client's grandmother. This collection was designed to recreate Monyan's avante garde style she eloquently and effortlessly modeled in her lifetime. Through photographs and long conversations with my client, she helped create an image for me of Monyan's character, that of which I personified in handbags with the use of her dresses, clothing Monyan made for her daughter, curtains and loose fabrics she owned. Each handbag evokes a different look at Monyan's colorful and original style. With this, I give you, "Monyan Forevermore."


The red scarf that is prominent on all Rahab bags are symbolic of the crimson cord that Joshua told Rahab to hang from her window (Josh 2: 18). The crimson cord would be a sign to the Israelites not to attack anyone of that household when they sacked Jericho.








Most of the symbols of the Resurrection derived from nature are linked to spring, a season of new life. In Christian art, the butterfly represents the Resurrection. Its life cycle from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly symbolizes the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

The large flower fabric used here is taken from fabulous curtains Monyan had hanging in her house. The butterflies are cut from her dress, and stitched on.




The black lace trim around the top I cut from the bodice of Monyan's dress.












The buttons utilized on the handles are from the butterfly dress as well.












Pretty pockets and butterfly in flight add for an eye-popping surprise upon looking inside this vintage inspired handbag. The long pockets on the sides (in black) are cut from the bodice of Monyan's dress. The original pleats are still intact. These large pockets are perfect for big sunglasses.

Click on the images for a larger view.

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