Christie’s Paris is gearing up for a highly anticipated auction on 3 November 2022, featuring what is being touted as the “rarest bag in the world.” The star of the show is a Kelly Sellier 25 Himalaya, made by renowned luxury brand Hermès. Crafted from matte white Niloticus crocodile leather with palladium hardware, this particular model is estimated to be worth nearly 200,000 euros. The significance of this auction lies in the fact that this specific Kelly has never before been presented at any auction, making it an exceptionally unique find, as reported by Vanity Fair France.
What sets this bag apart from others and gives it its unparalleled rarity is the exterior stitching technique employed in its creation. Known as “sellier,” this stitching method is highly esteemed in the realm of leather goods, and Hermès has been a pioneer in its use. According to Lucile Andreani, the Director of Handbags & Accessories at Christie’s EMEA, the sellier technique adds a touch of elegance that elevates the beauty and desirability of the Kelly.
Given its extraordinary scarcity, it comes as no surprise that the estimated value of this bag falls within the range of 120,000 to 160,000 euros. However, industry experts are predicting that it will command significantly higher bids, considering the skyrocketing prices seen for similar bags in the past. In 2019, an iconic Kelly Himalaya bag known as the “Retourné” 25 was sold for a staggering 237,381 euros in Hong Kong. Just two years later, its value had doubled, reaching an astounding 509,290 euros.
The “Handbags Online: The Paris Edit” auction will showcase several other iconic Hermès models, adding to the excitement and allure of the event. Among the notable pieces is the Kelly So Black Plumes Sellier 28, a creation by Jean-Paul Gaultier, featuring genuine feathers and estimated to be worth between 80,000 and 100,000 euros. Additionally, Christie’s Paris will present a Faubourg Birkin 20 in Blanc et Béton, a Kellywood 22 made entirely of wood, as well as exquisite leather goods from esteemed brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Delvaux, and Dior.
Interested buyers will have the opportunity to participate in the online auction starting from noon on 3 November until the conclusion on 17 November at 2 pm. Prior to the online event, a selection of key pieces from the auction will be on display at Christie’s in Paris from 4 to 10 November, allowing enthusiasts and collectors to preview these exceptional items before placing their bids.
For more information about the upcoming auction or to explore the remarkable world of luxury handbags, visit Christie’s official website here. Additionally, Vanity Fair France’s comprehensive report on the unique Kelly Sellier 25 Himalaya bag can be found here.
