Judith Leiber Straw & Tan Leather Woven Frame Bag with Frog & Ladybug Hardware
Shoulder Bag / Frame Bag. It features a structured doctor-bag inspired silhouette with a fixed shoulder strap. · Judith Leiber (Authentic Brands Group), known for high-end luxury evening bags and whimsical minaudières. Tier: Luxury / High-End Designer.
Collection: Judith Leiber Signature Collection. This appears to be a seasonal day-to-evening boutique item rather than her more common crystal-encrusted evening line.
Style
Shoulder Bag / Frame Bag. It features a structured doctor-bag inspired silhouette with a fixed shoulder strap.
Brand
Judith Leiber (Authentic Brands Group), known for high-end luxury evening bags and whimsical minaudières. Tier: Luxury / High-End Designer.
Material
Woven natural straw or raffia body with tan calfskin leather trim and side panels. Constructed with a rigid metal frame hidden by leather covering. Hand-assembled with precise machine-stitching on the leather components.
Dimensions
Width: 25cm (10in), Height: 15cm (6in), Depth: 8cm (3in), Strap Drop: 20cm (8in). Medium/Small size.
Description
A sophisticated and quirky take on the classic basket bag, this Judith Leiber piece blends natural elements with luxury hardware. The woven raffia provides a summer-ready texture, while the whimsical frog and ladybug gold-tone accents elevate it from a simple day bag to a collector's conversation piece.
Key Features
Sculptural frog top clasp, dangling ladybug charm, leather-wrapped frame with rivet detailing, and the high-contrast basketweave straw texture.
Material & Construction
Woven natural straw or raffia body with tan calfskin leather trim and side panels. Constructed with a rigid metal frame hidden by leather covering. Hand-assembled with precise machine-stitching on the leather components.
Color & Pattern
Natural beige straw in a diagonal basketweave pattern; trim is in a matte tan or 'Camel' leather. Hardware is gold-tone.
Hardware Details
Gold-tone metal. The focal point is a sculptural frog resting atop the frame and a dangling ladybug charm on the front latch. Fastened with decorative rivets along the leather-wrapped frame.
Interior Description
Likely lined in signature Judith Leiber gold or beige grosgrain fabric or metallic Napa leather. Usually contains a zip pocket, a slip pocket, and potentially a small gold-toned comb and mirror set characteristic of Leiber bags.
Closure Type
Top frame click-lock. The frog acts as the ornamental clasp mechanism that snaps the hinged frame shut.
Strap & Handle Details
Single flat leather shoulder strap attached via integrated gold-tone D-rings. The strap appears non-adjustable and fixed to the frame.
Craftsmanship Details
The weave is exceptionally tight and uniform. The leather-wrapped frame is a labor-intensive technique requiring perfect tension to avoid wrinkling around the curves. Gold plating on the frog shows high-quality depth without pitting.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry in the basketweave, high-relief detail on the frog hardware (not blurry or poorly cast), precise stitching on leather side gussets, and the characteristic Judith Leiber font on the interior nameplate (if visible).
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy or USA. During this era, Leiber's leather and straw products were often handcrafted in Italy utilizing artisanal weaving techniques.
Era & Period
Contemporary Vintage / Late 1990s to Early 2000s. The 'Garden' theme hardware and basketweave straw were popular during this era's 'Luxe Bohemian' trend.
Age Estimate
Circa 1995-2005 based on the style of the frog hardware and the font indicative of that specific branding era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Whimsical Luxury' movement where Judith Leiber transformed everyday creatures into high-fashion status symbols. These bags were essential accessories for Manhattan socialites in the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Excellent exterior condition. Straw appears intact without fraying. Leather shows minor softening. Internal structure is well-maintained. Grade: Excellent (Pre-owned).
Value Estimate
$350 - $650 USD on the secondary market. Value increases if the original mirror, comb, and dust bag are included.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid moisture as straw can mold or warp. Apply leather conditioner to the tan trim annually. Store in a dust bag with acid-free tissue to maintain the frame shape. Do not overstuff which could bend the metal hinges.
Similar Handbags
Kate Spade 'Novelty' straw bags (Contemporary tier), Gucci 'Bamboo' straw bags (Luxury tier), or Charlotte Olympia wicker bags.
Interesting Facts
Judith Leiber was the first woman to join the New York Handbag Supply Salesmen’s Association. Her whimsical animal designs are famously collected by First Ladies and are held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.