Paris, France — The iconic Hermès Birkin bag that started it all—the very first prototype of what would become a global luxury phenomenon—is set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s in Paris next month. Dubbed “The Original Birkin,” the historic handbag will headline the “Fashion Icons” sale on July 10, the auction house announced Thursday.
Crafted nearly 40 years ago following a chance meeting between Jane Birkin and then-Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas, the all-black leather bag became the blueprint for one of the world’s most coveted status symbols. Its creation story is as legendary as its design: during a 1984 flight, Birkin sketched her ideal bag—spacious yet stylish—on an airplane sick bag after complaining to Dumas about the lack of practical yet elegant handbags.
A Fashion Legend with Unmatched Provenance
“This bag transcends trends—it’s a cultural artifact,” said Morgane Halimi, Sotheby’s global head of handbags and fashion. She likened its significance to Princess Diana’s “black sheep” sweater and Freddie Mercury’s stage crown, noting its potential to “redefine auction records.” Though Sotheby’s declined to provide a pre-sale estimate, experts anticipate fierce bidding.
The prototype differs from later Birkins in seven key details, including its size, brass hardware, and unique “J.B” initials branded on the flap. A quirky touch: a pair of nail clippers still hangs from its shoulder strap, a personal addition by Birkin herself.
From Pop Culture to Legacy
Before her death in 2023, Birkin joked to CNN’s Christiane Amanpour that the bag might outshine her own artistic legacy. “When I’m gone, they’ll probably just talk about the bag,” she quipped. Yet its origin story—born from a casual sketch on an airsickness bag—cements its place in fashion lore.
Global Exhibition Draws Crowds
The bag will be displayed at Sotheby’s New York galleries (June 6–12) ahead of the auction. Previous exhibitions in Paris and Hong Kong drew thousands, underscoring its enduring allure.
As Halimi put it: “This isn’t just a handbag—it’s the birth of an icon.”
Relation topics：
