Paris – Christie’s is proud to present Handbags Online: The Paris edit, a curated selection of the most rare and desirable handbags, from 31 October to 14 November 2023. Leading the auction, we are thrilled to partner with Gucci to present three exceptional and unique Made-to-Treasure Bamboo bags from Gucci each revisited with the finest techniques of Italian artistry, offering unique versions of the iconic handle standing for the house’s past, present and future.

Coherently with the ethos of Gucci Vault, the brand’s experimental space in pursuit of precious wonders that go beyond the confines of time, Gucci has hand-picked and hand-crafted three spectacular rarities for Christie’s Handbags Online: The Paris edit.

Rachel Koffsky, SVP, International Head of Handbags at Christie’s shares: “We are delighted to partner with Gucci to present three of the rarest Gucci bags ever produced, selected and reconceived by Gucci for the occasion. The Bamboo Bag is an iconic and enduring symbol of Gucci, and these precious pieces are exemplary of the spirit of innovation, craftsmanship, and beauty that showcase Gucci’s mastery of both its rich heritage and future-forward vision.”

Forged over an open flame, the 1947 Bamboo handle bag was originally created by Guccio Gucci and his Florentine artisans in post-war Italy due to material rationing and shortages. Combining bamboo's lightness and elegant curve with leather's strength and supple appeal, it became a timeless Gucci classic and symbol of ingenuity. It quickly gained popularity, leading to ongoing reinventions in various sizes and colors, sparking renewed interest. Gucci’s highly skilled craftsmen in the House’s ArtLab have modernized and customized three vintage Bamboo bags into new Made-to-Treasure designs – resulting in three of the most unusual and eye-catching Bamboo bags in the history of Gucci.

These three collector's items have been reinterpreted through unique embellishments, hinting at the Bamboo bag's evolution throughout Gucci’s history. Each of the three pieces virtually represent a pillar of the House’s savoir faire. As a tribute to the brand's heritage, the first bag is an exceedingly rare and desirable representation of the classic model, featuring the original beige and ebony GG canvas from the 1960s (estimated at €6,000 - €8,000). The second one, a nod to the brand's commitment to sustainability, boasts a hand-crafted Murano Glass handle adorned with a hand-painted Herbarium print (estimated at €20,000 - €30,000). Lastly, the third creation (estimated at €150,000 - €200,000) is the most exquisite, valuable, and precious Bamboo bag ever created. Showcasing the House's exceptional craftsmanship and the spirit of the Gucci High Jewelry collection, this Bamboo bag features an 18-carat gold handle encrusted with 927 diamonds, making it a unique collector's piece.

This partnership was built as part of the ongoing collaboration between Christie's and Gucci. Unveiled this summer with the 7th edition of Art+Tech Summit, Christie's and Gucci have joined forces to present Future Frequencies: Explorations in Generative Art and Fashion. This collaborative sale, featuring artworks by leading digital artists at the crossroads of fashion, art and technology, was accessible on the on-chain auction platform dedicated to exceptional digital art, Christie's 3.0, and presented on the Gucci Art Space, the brand's online gallery space.

Handbags: the Paris Edit – Online sale, 31 October-14 November, 2023

Gucci Exhibition at Christie’s Paris: 23 October – 2 November

Handbags: the Paris Edit Exhibition at Christie’s Paris: 4-8 November

Bamboo Bags Preview at GUCCI, 60 avenue Montaigne: 9-13 November

PRESS IMAGES AVAILABLE HERE