Judith Leiber Embellished White Karung Clutch
About the Item
- Designer:
- Brand:
- Dimensions:Height: 7 in (17.78 cm)Width: 10.5 in (26.67 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Alford, MA
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU2092599603
Judith Leiber
When it comes to handbags, no designer can compete with Judith Leiber’s (1921–2018) ability to create magic using opulent crystals and wildly imaginative and playful shapes. The Hungarian-born designer made minaudières (small, decorative handbags, often without handles or a strap) in the form of crystal-covered swans, cupcakes, lipstick, wads of cash, teddy bears and other delightful objects. These dazzling objets d’art have been regularly seen in the hands of First Ladies, movie stars on the red carpet and even in the prestigious collections of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Like many pathbreaking inventions in the history of design, Leiber’s minaudières were the result of a happy accident. In 1967, she began working on her first metal handbag. The piece in question was named the Chatelaine, and the design was a graceful drop-shaped purse in gold-tinted metal. But when the samples came in, Leiber saw that the bottom of the bag looked greenish and discolored as a result of the plating process. She had the ingenious idea of applying crystal rhinestones to the base to cover up the flaws. The dazzling bag was a huge success and would become her trademark.
Born Judith Peto in Budapest, Leiber overcame many hardships before her breakthrough. At the start of World War II, she was working at the Pessl handbag company in Budapest where she quickly climbed the ranks to become a master craftswoman. When the war escalated, she and her Jewish family were forced by the Nazis to live in a cellar of a ghetto, and several of her relatives were killed in concentration camps. “I designed handbags in my head to get through the misery,” she said. After the liberation of Budapest, she married Gerson “Gus” Leiber, an American GI, and moved to New York. In 1948, she began working for the fashion house Nettie Rosenstein. One of her first major pieces was the handbag embroidered with glittering rhinestones and pearls carried by Mamie Eisenhower at the 1953 inaugural ball. In 1963, she finally set up her own company.
Leiber’s whimsical designs embellished with Swarovski crystals and semiprecious stones defied traditional notions of luxury handbags. She also created striking clutches and bags with leather and fine textiles from around the world. In her 65-year career, she designed over 3,500 bags, which have been worn by First Ladies including Nancy Reagan and Laura Bush, pop icons like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez and celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner (who collects Leiber’s handbags). In 2005, the Leiber Collection Museum opened in East Hampton, New York, as a permanent space to showcase her work. The minaudières remain coveted objects celebrated worldwide for their eclectic beauty and glamorous charm.
The value of a good handbag cannot be overstated — find a collection of vintage Judith Leiber handbags and other fashion accessories today on 1stDibs.
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Alford, MA
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 1 day of delivery.
- Carlos Falchi Beige Linen and Silver ClutchBy Carlos FalchiLocated in Alford, MACarlos Falchi convertible clutch in a natural linen fabric overlaid with an applied off center silver grid. A thin silver leather strap converts the clutch Into to a shoulder bag. Zi...Category
1980s Unknown Clutches
- Patchwork Clutch with Bakelite FrameLocated in Alford, MAClutch in the deepest gray soft leather featuring a central patchwork panel of leaves in varied complementary colors. Carved bakelite frame and hinged clasp.Category
Late 20th Century American Clutches
- Judith Leiber Black Silk Clutch with CrystalsBy Judith LeiberLocated in Alford, MASleek rectangular black fabric clutch by Judith Leiber, the border ornamented with brushed silver metal and crystals. Magnetic clasp. Interior features attached mirror and side compa...Category
Late 20th Century American Clutches
- Suarez Red Lizard Covertible ClutchBy SuarezLocated in Alford, MAPerfect clutch in cherry red lizard by Suarez, known for their exotic skin handbags, features an interesting metal and black bead chain that converts it int...Category
Late 20th Century American Clutches
- 1930s Art Deco Velvet ClutchLocated in Alford, MAElegant 1930s black velvet clutch featuring an Art Deco clasp of rectangular form, complementing the softly rounded upper edge of the bag. The clasp is composed of marcasite in an op...Category
1930s American Clutches
- 1940s Large Faille Clutch with GlovesLocated in Alford, MAA unique design from the 1940s, this oversized clutch in black faille features a curved top and sides as well as central section of black-on-black design fabric that matches the trim...Category
1940s American Clutches
- Chanel Clutch Bag Leather In GoldBy ChanelLocated in London, GBThis Chanel clutch bag is a classic and timeless piece that is sure to add a touch of luxury to any outfit. It is made from high-quality leather and fe...Category
21st Century and Contemporary Clutches
- Valentino Multicolor Leather Rockstud Va Va Voom Chain ClutchBy ValentinoLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2This Va Va Voom clutch from Valentino has an appealing design. Crafted from quality leather, the creation features a gorgeous flap, a well-sized interior, and a shoulder chain. It al...Category
2010s Italian Clutches
- Bottega Veneta White Leather Teen Pouch ClutchBy Bottega VenetaLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2A bag that took the fashion world by storm, Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch clutch reflects Daniel Lee’s distinctive style choices. This version is skillfully made from leather into an un...Category
2010s Italian Clutches
- Bottega Veneta White Leather Teen Pouch ClutchBy Bottega VenetaLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2A bag that took the fashion world by storm, Bottega Veneta’s The Pouch clutch reflects Daniel Lee’s distinctive style choices. This version is skillfully made from leather into an un...Category
2010s Italian Clutches
- Coach Grey Python Embossed Leather Flap ClutchLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2Crafted from quality materials, your wardrobe is missing out on this beautifully made designer clutch. Look your fashionable best in any outfit with this stylish clutch that promises...Category
2010s Chinese Clutches
- Prada White Nylon and Leather Strap PouchBy PradaLocated in Dubai, Al Qouz 2Functional and stylish, this designer label's collections capture the effortless, elegant finesse of the modern woman. Crafted from quality materials, this chic bag is easy to carry ...Category
2010s Italian Clutches