Marquetry Saddle Clutch Bag with Crystal Kundan

This Marquetry Saddle Clutch Bag is a sophisticated expression of craftsmanship, featuring crystal kundan centrepieces on both sides, elegantly set with rubies and emeralds. The top lock, crafted using the traditional kundan technique, showcases a luminous rock crystal embellished with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds, creating a striking focal point that combines precious materials with exceptional artistry.

The composition balances the natural warmth of marquetry with the brilliance of gemstones and the refinement of traditional jewellery techniques, resulting in a clutch that functions as both an accessory and a collectible work of craftsmanship.

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 kundan gemstone setting. Traditionally associated with the jewelled arts of the Mughal emperors, kundan allows gemstones to be set directly into metal surfaces or carved materials such as rock crystal. The technique is renowned for its complexity and labour intensity, with every component being individually hand-finished by skilled artisans. Even relatively small kundan jewellery pieces can require several months of dedicated work, depending upon the intricacy of the design.

Marquetry Saddle Clutch Bag with crystal kundan settings, rock crystal, rubies, emeralds, and diamonds, created as a luxury clutch bag and collectible designer accessory. This handcrafted evening bag belongs within luxury handbags, statement fashion accessories, and artisan designer clutches, combining traditional straw marquetry with Mughal-inspired kundan craftsmanship and precious gemstones. Ideal for collectors of luxury handbags, gemstone accessories, and one of a kind artisan bags, it offers a rare balance of heritage craftsmanship, refined materials, and timeless elegance.

This handbag required more than three months to complete and involved over six craftsmen across various stages of production.

Rock crystal: approx. 34.50 ct
Ruby: approx. 2.555 ct
Emerald: approx. 1.204 ct
Diamond: approx. 0.075 ct

Dimensions: 13.0 (H) × 27.5 (L) × 7.0 (W) cm
Weight: 397.96 g