Sotheby's auctions first Hermès Birkin bag

While every Hermès Birkin bag is currently sold as an exclusive, in July buyers will have the opportunity to compete for the "exclusive of exclusives".

As reported by francetvinfo. fr., the first Hermès Birkin bag, designed especially for Jane Birkin in 1984, will be sold at auction in Paris on July 10, the last day of Haute Couture Week, Sotheby's announced on Thursday, June 5. The large black leather tote, which became the prototype for one of the most famous and expensive bags in the world, will be the "centerpiece" of the sale, called "Fashion Icons", the auction house said in a press release.

It will be on public display in Sotheby's galleries in New York from June 6 to 12, followed by a final presentation in the Paris premises in the 8th arrondissement from July 3 to 9. This “historical prototype, handcrafted”, engraved with the initials JB, has several features that make it a unique piece, including its dimensions, closed metal rings, non-removable shoulder strap and built-in nail clippers.

Fashion icon Jane Birkin put practicality above all else. On a flight from Paris to London, the English singer and actress complained to her seatmate that she could not find a bag that suited her needs as a new mother. The seatmate was Jean-Louis Dumas, then the manager of Hermès. Thus, in 1984, the tote bag with a compartment for baby bottles was created, called the Birkin.

Forty years later, this leather bag has become a signature Hermès product. Produced in very small quantities, it cultivates an image of exclusivity, and prices can vary greatly: from a few thousand euros for the most basic models to several hundred thousand euros for the most luxurious.

In addition to the Birkin bag, this sale will feature iconic pieces from the shows of designers such as Christian Dior, John Galliano, Thierry Mugler and Alexander McQueen. The auction will open online on June 26 and close on July 10.

Photo: francetvinfo. fr.