The original prototype of the iconic Birkin handbag, sketched by Jane Birkin on an air sickness bag, was auctioned for an astounding €8.6 million ($15.29 million) in Paris, making it the second most expensive fashion item ever sold at auction. This phenomenal price surpassed the previous record for a handbag, which was set at $513,040 in 2021 for a Hermès Kelly bag. Applause erupted from the audience as the bidding progressed, starting from €1 million and rapidly rising, culminating in a breathtaking bid of €7 million from a Japanese collector.
The Birkin bag, named after the late actress and fashion icon Jane Birkin, was originally commissioned by Hermès in 1984 and delivered the following year. Its popularity soared following a memorable encounter between Birkin and the then-head of Hermès, Jean-Louis Dumas, on a flight in the 1980s, where she expressed the need for a larger bag and sketched her idea on the flight. The subsequent commercial version transformed into a global symbol of luxury, becoming one of the most desirable handbags in history.
The sale drew significant attention, with Sotheby’s reporting that nine collectors participated in the auction, creating an electric atmosphere in the room. The final price broke all expectations and firmly established the original Birkin as a singular piece of fashion history, with unique elements that distinguish it from later versions.
Notably, the prototype features exclusive design aspects, including a non-removable shoulder strap and customised hardware, tailored to Birkin’s personal style and practicality. Birkin herself remarked on the legacy of the bag, saying that her obituaries might well mention her in relation to the handbag.
Sotheby’s highlighted that the Birkin signifies more than mere luxury; it epitomises a cultural phenomenon, extending its influence across various sectors, including music, film, and fashion. This timeless accessory has not only been a staple at red-carpet events but also remains coveted by celebrities and collectors alike.
The bidding excitement and the final sale reinforce the Birkin bag’s status as more than just an accessory; it embodies a rich narrative and fashion legacy that is both captivating and culturally significant.