In a record-breaking moment for the fashion world, a worn and well-loved Hermès Birkin bag once carried daily by British actress and singer Jane Birkin has sold for an astounding 86 crore or around 8.6 million or 10 million at a Sotheby’s online auction in Paris. The sale makes it the most expensive handbag ever sold. For the unversed, Sotheby’s is one of the biggest auction houses for fine art, jewellery and more.
Jane Birkin’s Birkin Bag Sold For 86 Crores
The bidding war, which lasted just mere 10 minutes, saw nine collectors trying to buy the bag. The hammer finally came down at 7 million (8.2 million), with additional fees bringing the total to 8.6 million. The winning bidder was a private collector from Japan. Viewers of the live auction could be heard gasping as the price quickly soared past 1 million, far surpassing its estimated value.
Unlike other high-end bags that fetch eye-watering prices due to exotic materials or sparkling embellishments, this Birkin bag’s value lies in its story. Jane Birkin, for whom the bag is named, used this particular black leather bag almost daily between 1985 and 1994. It’s visibly aged, showing scratches, scuffs, and marks that tell its own history, including her initials “J.B.”, nail clippers tied to the strap, and sticker remnants from charities like UNICEF and Médecins du Monde.
Rather than storing her designer bags like rare artifacts, Birkin believed in using them fully. She eventually auctioned off this one herself in 1994 to help raise money for AIDS research.
The origin of the Birkin bag traces back to a chance encounter in 1981, when Jane Birkin’s wicker basket spilt its contents on a Paris-to-London flight. Sitting next to her was Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas. After hearing her wish for a practical and stylish carryall, he sketched out the concept on an aeroplane sick bag and the rest is history.
Also Read: Hautelist: From Jaipur Prints To Manga Posters, 10 Quirky Charms To Birkin-ify Your Bag!
Morgane Halimi, head of handbags at Sotheby’s, said this sale marks a historic moment for fashion. She highlighted how it honours Jane Birkin’s influence and the personal touch she brought to one of the most iconic bags ever made.
Also Read: Why Are Chinese Suppliers Selling Luxury Goods Of Birkin, Louis Vuitton At Cheaper Rates? Know Here