Purpose

Bandolier bags are assumed to be attempts at adopting European styles of purses or hunting/weapon bags. The range of size of these bags assumes that smaller bags were probably made to sell, or for children, and the larger made for a relative or friend. They are worn diagonally across the body and the strap has a different design on the front and on the back. There is no photo on this site of someone wearing these bags, because they are too delicate. Some bags have a pocket, pocket illusion, or have been sewn shut. The bags were worn at ceremonies or for photographs, and it is very common to see men in powerful positions wearing two or more bags. I presume that they are for adornment and to show prestige.