The original Birkin bag, a symbol of luxury and style, has just set a new world record by selling for €8.6 million (£7.4 million; $10.1 million) at auction. This stylish black leather bag was crafted in 1985 for the legendary singer Jane Birkin after she requested a larger bag during a flight alongside the chief of Hermès. The iconic design was sketched out right on an airplane sick bag!
The auction, held by Sotheby’s in Paris, featured an intense 10-minute bidding war, with nine collectors vying for this museum-worthy item. Morgane Halimi from Sotheby’s highlighted the significance of the bag, stating it captures the essence of a legend and the passion of avid collectors.
The unique bag boasts Birkin's initials, a non-removable shoulder strap, and even some of her belongings attached, including nail clippers! Jane Birkin, who passed away in 2023 at 76, donated the bag to charity in the ’90s, where it has since changed hands multiple times before this historic auction. Previously, the record for the most expensive handbag was held by a crocodile skin Kelly bag, but that record has now been eclipsed by the iconic Birkin.
The auction, held by Sotheby’s in Paris, featured an intense 10-minute bidding war, with nine collectors vying for this museum-worthy item. Morgane Halimi from Sotheby’s highlighted the significance of the bag, stating it captures the essence of a legend and the passion of avid collectors.
The unique bag boasts Birkin's initials, a non-removable shoulder strap, and even some of her belongings attached, including nail clippers! Jane Birkin, who passed away in 2023 at 76, donated the bag to charity in the ’90s, where it has since changed hands multiple times before this historic auction. Previously, the record for the most expensive handbag was held by a crocodile skin Kelly bag, but that record has now been eclipsed by the iconic Birkin.
