Italian Bags

The handbag has been a much-used accessory ever since ancient times. The oldest and most thriving Italian cities bear witness to that. In fact every Italian city where trade and commerce flourished had its own quarter or street of bag-makers (Via dei Borsai), outstanding artisans who specialized in making beautiful purses and bags.

The most famous Italian handbag craftsmen were to be found in cities such as Venice, Pistoia, Siena, Pisa and were much in demand by high society. The Parisian court bought its bags and purses exclusively from these skilful Italian artisans. Documents have been preserved which mention extremely luxurious and costly purses, embellished with gold, precious stones, enamels, silver, and all coming from Italy.