Christie's Auctions Jane Birkin's Iconic Bag Before the "Birkin"

Summary

• Christie’s is set to auction the Hermès HAC bag owned by Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg, the direct predecessor to the Birkin bag in November
• The HAC bag holds a unique place in fashion history as the functional holdall that inspired the creation of the iconic Birkin
• The auction offers a rare chance to own a relic tied to the celebrity couple who defined an era of provocative art and style

Christie’s is set to auction a piece of fashion history intimately linked to one of pop culture’s most iconic couples: Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg. While the famous Birkin bag often steals the spotlight, this item is the Hermès Haut à Courroies (HAC) bag that Gainsbourg famously gifted to the singer in the early days of their legendary 12-year relationship. The bag is not only a rare artifact but it inspired the creation of the now iconic, Birkin.

The HAC bag, which predates the Birkin, was a utilitarian holdall originally designed for carrying equestrian gear. This particular piece, which Gainsbourg presented to Birkin, became her signature travel companion before the later model was conceived. While the original Birkin prototype recently sold for over $10 million USD at auction, the HAC bag holds a unique place in fashion lore as the direct predecessor that inspired the ultimate luxury accessory.

This auction is a fascinating look into the personal world of the celebrity couple who scandalized Europe with their provocative art, including the notorious 1969 song “Je t’aime…moi non plus.” Birkin, a fashion icon known for her effortless chic, later became synonymous with the bag that bore her name. The sale of this HAC bag offers collectors a chance to own a true relic from the very beginning of the Birkin’s story and the tumultuous, passionate relationship that shaped a generation’s style. The sale of the bag will occur in Paris on November 6, preceded by previews in Hong Kong, Paris and Bangkok from October 30 to November 6.