Books have long inspired great thinkers – scholars, scientists, political leaders and such, for their text. The physical beauty of the finest books has similarly inspired many great artists. Now, books are also providing inspiration for handbags. Not just any handbags, mind you - Prada handbags. They don't come any finer or more prestigious than these. Recently introduced for the coming fall season is a handbag inspired by the finest of classic books. Prada calls it the Cahier, which is French for notebook. Those who demand the best will be carrying these handbags come fall, at least if Prada has its way.
Since this is not an ordinary handbag, it is not patterned upon an ordinary book. Prada describes it as "defined by elements inspired by ancient books or a precious private diary." The upper part of the bag, generally in a different color, is reminiscent of a book's spine. The front edge reminds us of a book's fore edge. The body of the bag is made from Saffiano leather, a form of leather invented by Mario Prada back in 1913. It forms what would be the covers. Looking like a feature of the most expensively bound old books, the bag contains bronze-colored metal corners and edge along the front.
Like the finest antiquarian books, the Cahier is not inexpensive. Prada, is, after all, the Kelmscott Press of handbags. It retails for $2,660. Intended for the fall/winter 2016 season, it is available now at select Prada stores and online.
Sotheby's Fine Books & Manuscripts Available for Immediate Purchase
Sotheby’s: Balthus, Emily Brontë. Wuthering Heights, New York: The Limited Editions Club, 1993. 6,600 USD.
Sotheby’s: Charles Dickens. Complete Works, Philadelphia & London: J.B. Lippincott Company & Chapman & Hall, LD, 1850. Limited Edition set of 30 volumes. 7,500 USD.
Sotheby’s: John Lennon, Yoko Ono. Handwritten Letter from John Lennon and Yoko Ono to their Chauffer. 1971. 32,500 USD.
Sotheby’s: Winston Churchill. First edition of War Speeches, Cassell and Company, Ltd., 1941. Set of 7 volumes. 5,500 USD.
Sotheby’s: Andy Warhol, Julia Warhola. Holy Cats First Edition, Signed by Andy Warhol. 1954. 30,000 USD.
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