Tokyo— The original Hermès bag custom-made for the late actress and singer Jane Birkin, which went on to become a global fashion icon, was unveiled to the media in Tokyo on Wednesday. The bag was purchased earlier this year for a record 8.6 million euros ($10 million) at a Sotheby’s auction in Paris by Valuence Japan, a luxury resale company.
According to fashion history, the legendary Birkin bag was born in 1984 when Jane Birkin, then a young mother, sat next to Hermès executive Jean-Louis Dumas on a flight. During their conversation, she mentioned her need for a handbag that was both elegant and practical. Inspired by her request, Dumas sketched a rectangular leather tote on the spot, complete with compartments — including one designed to hold baby bottles.
After the actress received her custom-made bag, Hermès began producing smaller, mass-market versions. The design became an instant sensation, elevating Hermès into one of the world’s most coveted luxury brands.
Shinsuke Sakimoto, co-founder and CEO of Valuence Japan, said the story behind the Birkin bag reflects his company’s core philosophy. “We believe products should not be valued merely for their price, but for the stories, ideals, and craftsmanship they embody,” he said. Sakimoto added that Valuence intends to display the historic handbag in museums and exhibitions rather than sell it.
Jane Birkin herself auctioned off the original bag in 1994 to raise funds for Sidaction, a French charity supporting AIDS research and awareness.
