Jane Birkin's original namesake Hermes bag sells for recording-breaking 8.6m at Sotheby's Paris
Briefly

Sotheby’s auctioned a 50-year-old Birkin bag prototype, owned by Jane Birkin, for €8.6 million in July 2023. The auction saw intense competition, with nine collectors involved. The Birkin bag's inception dates back to 1985 when Jane Birkin requested a larger handbag from Hermès chairman Jean-Louis Dumas, leading to the creation of this iconic accessory. Birkins are cherished for their design, craftsmanship, rarity, and as a status symbol, as they cannot simply be purchased off the shelf, contributing to their desirability and inflated market value.
In July 2023, Sotheby’s auctioned a 50-year-old Birkin handbag, originally belonging to Jane Birkin, for a staggering €8.6 million, setting a new auction record.
The Birkin bag was created after Jane Birkin expressed her need for a practical handbag to Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight in 1985, leading to its legendary status.
Birkin bags are valued not only for their design and craftsmanship but also for their exclusivity, serving as a significant status symbol in the fashion world.
The iconic Birkin bag's popularity stems from its clean lines, expert craftsmanship, and the personal connection to Jane Birkin, making it highly coveted in pop culture.
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