Vintage Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Macramé Cord Tote in Espresso and Cognac
Tote / Shoulder Bag; specifically a soft-sided textile-weave tote with a rectangular silhouette. · Bottega Veneta (Kering Group). Tier: Ultra-luxury. Renowned for their 'No Logo' philosophy and mastery of artisanal weaving (Intrecciato).
Collection: Bottega Veneta Artisanal Textile Line, likely a seasonal variations of their soft-weave collection from the late 90s or early 2000s.
Style
Tote / Shoulder Bag; specifically a soft-sided textile-weave tote with a rectangular silhouette.
Brand
Bottega Veneta (Kering Group). Tier: Ultra-luxury. Renowned for their 'No Logo' philosophy and mastery of artisanal weaving (Intrecciato).
Material
Hand-woven macramé cord/nylon textile with leather trim accents. The construction utilizes a complex knotting technique typical of artisan textile craft rather than standard leather stitching.
Dimensions
Width: 32cm, Height: 30cm, Depth: 5cm. Strap Drop: 25-30cm. This corresponds to a standard Medium Tote size.
Description
This exquisite Bottega Veneta tote represents the house's departure from traditional leather into the world of luxury textiles. The bag features a masterfully hand-knotted macramé body in a sophisticated earthy palette. Its tactile 'popcorn' weave and rope handles offer a relaxed yet high-fashion look that embodies the 'Quiet Luxury' for which the brand is famous.
Key Features
Hand-knotted macramé construction, bicolor geometric banding, twisted cord rope handles with tassels, and the absence of external branding.
Material & Construction
Hand-woven macramé cord/nylon textile with leather trim accents. The construction utilizes a complex knotting technique typical of artisan textile craft rather than standard leather stitching.
Color & Pattern
Bicolor: Espresso (dark brown) and Cognac (warm chestnut). Pattern features horizontal bands of geometric diamond-knotted motifs and rows of circular 'popcorn' weave elements.
Hardware Details
Minimal hardware; typical of Bottega Veneta's historic focus on material over metal. Likely features a small internal zipper with a metal pull and possibly small metal eyelets for the rope handle attachments.
Interior Description
Likely unlined or lined with a thin tonal satin/nylon fabric. Often features a single zippered interior pocket and a leather 'Bottega Veneta Made in Italy' heat-stamped patch.
Closure Type
Open top or optional singular magnetic snap internal closure. The flexible nature of the weave allows the top to naturally collapse for security.
Strap & Handle Details
Dual twisted rope/cord long shoulder straps with knotted tassel ends. The straps are integrated through the weave of the bag for a seamless, bohemian aesthetic.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior knot consistency and tension. The transition between the Espresso and Cognac bands is seamless, indicating a high level of manual dexterity in the weaving process.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the hand-woven pattern, the density and weight of the cord material, and the specific 'tassel' end finish on the handles. A cloth white silk 'Made in Italy' tag or leather stamp inside would be the definitive marker.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in Italy. Produced in the Veneto region, following strict artisanal standards for woven goods.
Era & Period
Late 1990s to Early 2000s; an era defined by 'Bohemian Chic' and a shift toward textile experimentation within luxury houses.
Age Estimate
Circa 1998–2004 based on the specific macramé style and cord material used during the transition from the family-owned era to Gucci Group (Kering) ownership.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the early 2000s trend of 'craft-focused' luxury, where the value was derived from the hours of hand-work required to knot the textile rather than the raw cost of the material.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Visible pilling on some of the cord surface. The structure is soft as designed. No major stains visible, though rope handles show slight darkening from use. Price tag pinned to the handle suggests a second-hand market find.
Value Estimate
Resale market value: $450 - $750 USD depending on the cleanliness of the weave and interior condition. Original retail would have been significantly higher (approx. $1,800+).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid snagging on jewelry. Should be professionally cleaned by a textile specialist. Store stuffed with acid-free tissue to maintain the shape of the weave.
Similar Handbags
Bottega Veneta Knotted Silk Clutch, Prada Crochet Totes, or Chanel Deauville Canvas Totes (for the textile-luxury crossover).
Interesting Facts
While BV is famous for leather Intrecciato, their vintage macramé and silk-weave bags are highly sought after by niche collectors for their rarity and 'organic' luxury feel.