Marquetry Handbag with Onyx Kundan, Diamond and Bakelite Hair Pin Handle

This exceptional marquetry handbag features a vintage Bakelite hairpin handle, complemented by a bamboo stalk that introduces an organic contrast to its refined silhouette. The bag is secured with an onyx kundan lock set with black agate, while the central ornament is accented with silver finished in black rhodium and meticulously set with diamonds. The combination of rare historical elements, precious materials, and decorative craftsmanship creates a handbag of remarkable character and sophistication.

Lotus Arts de Vivre has pioneered the ancient technique of marquetry within the world of luxury handbags. Using imported European rye straw, the atelier collaborates with a renowned French marquetry specialist to bring extraordinary refinement to each design. The process involves soaking, splitting, sun-drying, and ironing the straw to create a natural spectrum of tones ranging from pale gold to deep brown.

Once the marquetry work is completed, fine golden embellishment lines are applied over a period of five to ten days, creating additional layers of pattern and texture. The handbags are then finished with precious and semi-precious materials, each element contributing to a narrative of craftsmanship, patience, and design. Applying marquetry to complex handbag forms requires exceptional precision to ensure seamless adhesion, alignment, and finishing.

A defining feature of this piece is the Meiji-period Maki-e lacquer hairpin handle, originally created for geishas and dating to approximately 1900. Inspired by flowers found within the gardens of imperial palaces and historic forts of Japan, the two-piece kanzashi hairpin features intricate Maki-e lacquer work, a technique in which gold or silver powder is sprinkled onto layers of lacquer to create highly detailed decoration. The process is exceptionally demanding, with professional kanzashi craftsmen traditionally undertaking apprenticeships lasting between five and ten years to master the art.

Marquetry handbag with vintage Meiji-period Maki-e lacquer hairpin handle, diamonds, black agate, black onyx, and black rhodium silver detailing, created as a luxury designer handbag and collectible artisan accessory. This handcrafted handbag belongs within luxury handbags, statement fashion accessories, and one of a kind designer bags, combining traditional straw marquetry with historic Japanese lacquer artistry and precious materials. Ideal for collectors of luxury handbags, artisan accessories, and rare decorative objects, it offers an exceptional balance of heritage craftsmanship, cultural history, and contemporary elegance.

This handbag required more than four months to complete and involved over eight craftsmen and designers across multiple stages of production.

Diamond: approx. 0.90 ct
Black agate: 0.62 g
Black onyx: approx. 5.5 g

Dimensions: 27 (H) × 21.8 (L) × 10.6 (W) cm
Weight: 593.42 g