Balenciaga Hourglass Small Top Handle Bag with Graffiti Print in White Calfskin
Top Handle Satchel with curved hourglass silhouette · Balenciaga (Kering); Luxury tier; Designed during the Demna (Gvasalia) era, known for avant-garde and streetwear-inspired luxury.
Collection: Hourglass Collection; Permanent line introduced in Fall/Winter 2019; Graffiti print variants were released across several seasons (circa 2020-2022).
Style
Top Handle Satchel with curved hourglass silhouette
Brand
Balenciaga (Kering); Luxury tier; Designed during the Demna (Gvasalia) era, known for avant-garde and streetwear-inspired luxury.
Material
Smooth Box Calfskin leather; Semi-rigid construction to maintain the architectural shape; Hand-painted/printed edgy graffiti motifs; Painted edge finishing.
Dimensions
Width: 23cm (9.0 inches), Height: 15cm (5.9 inches), Depth: 10cm (3.9 inches); Strap Drop: Approx 55cm (21.6 inches).
Description
The Hourglass bag is a masterclass in architectural design, featuring a distinct curvilinear base that mimics the house's archival Basque coats. This specific graffiti version subverts the formal shape with gritty, street-inspired visuals, making it a high-fashion statement piece that bridges heritage tailoring and modern urban culture.
Key Features
Curved 'hourglass' base; Matte B-logo hardware; Graffiti-style print including '75007' (Paris zip code); Rigid trapezoidal top and sloped sides.
Material & Construction
Smooth Box Calfskin leather; Semi-rigid construction to maintain the architectural shape; Hand-painted/printed edgy graffiti motifs; Painted edge finishing.
Color & Pattern
White base with black artisanal-style graffiti; Features 'Paris', '75007', and Balenciaga-related script; Street-art inspired pattern.
Hardware Details
Aged silver-tone or brushed ruthenium hardware; Signature 'B' logo pull-pendant on the front flap; Engraved Balenciaga logo on the base of the B.
Interior Description
Nappa lambskin lining in black; One main compartment; One interior zipper pocket; Interior heat-stamped Balenciaga logo in gold or silver foil.
Closure Type
Front flap with magnetic snap button hidden behind the 'B' decorative hardware.
Strap & Handle Details
Single rolled leather top handle; Detachable and adjustable leather crossbody strap (not shown in photo but standard for this model).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality box calfskin with a slight sheen; Uniform machine stitching reinforced at stress points; Precisely lacquered edges to maintain the clean lines of the silhouette.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'B' logo; Sharpness of the graffiti print; Proper curvature of the base; Tight, even stitching; Engraving quality on the bottom of the 'B'.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy; Produced in high-end leather ateliers using modern industrial and hand-finishing techniques.
Era & Period
Contemporary (2020s); Reflects the 'Logomania' and 'Ugly-Chic' streetwear luxury movement prioritized by Demna.
Age Estimate
Circa 2020–2021 based on the popularity of the white/black graffiti combination and the specific 'B' hardware patina.
Cultural Significance
A staple of the 'It-Bag' resurgence; widely popularized by influencers and celebrities like Kim Kardashian; helped redefine Balenciaga as a leader in hype-driven luxury.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Good; Visible surface dirt and grey scuffing on the top handle; Minor edge wear at the corners; Darkening on the white leather near the handle assembly.
Value Estimate
Original Retail: $2,300 - $2,700; Resale Value: $1,200 - $1,800 depending on graffiti pattern rarity and scuffing on the white leather.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid contact with dark denim to prevent color transfer on white leather; Use a soft dry cloth; Store in a dust bag with stuffing to maintain the rigid curve of the base.
Similar Handbags
Balenciaga Downtown Bag (softer construction); Alexander McQueen Curve Bag (bucket style with similar architectural feel); Gucci Dionysus (structured flap alternative).
Interesting Facts
The Hourglass silhouette is a tribute to the sculptural tailoring of the brand's founder, Cristóbal Balenciaga, specifically his iconic 1950s waistlines.