Hermès Jypsière 34 in Taurillon Clemence Leather
Messenger/Crossbody Hobo Bag · Hermès (LVMH), high-tier luxury. Designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier.
Collection: Jypsière Line, introduced in the Fall/Winter 2008 Collection; a permanent but limited production model.
Style
Messenger/Crossbody Hobo Bag
Brand
Hermès (LVMH), high-tier luxury. Designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier.
Material
Taurillon Clemence leather (heavy, pebbled bull leather). Hand-sewn saddle-stitching with burnished and painted edges; semi-structured with a slouchy base.
Dimensions
34cm (Width) x 26cm (Height) x 15cm (Depth). This is the size 34, which is the medium-large variant of the model.
Description
The Jypsière is a masterclass in casual luxury, blending the DNA of the Birkin and Kelly into a functional messenger silhouette. It features a rounded 'gibecière' game bag shape that hangs comfortably against the hip, making it the ultimate unisex heritage piece.
Key Features
Rounded messenger silhouette, Birkin-style sanglons and clasp, adjustable thick crossbody strap, and contrasting stitching.
Material & Construction
Taurillon Clemence leather (heavy, pebbled bull leather). Hand-sewn saddle-stitching with burnished and painted edges; semi-structured with a slouchy base.
Color & Pattern
Etoupe or Alezan (classic Hermès earth-toned brown/grey). Solid pattern with contrasting white/cream topstitching, a signature of the brand's permanent leather goods.
Hardware Details
Silver-tone Palladium hardware (PHW). Includes the iconic swivel clasp, two leather side straps with metal brackets, and adjustable buckle on the shoulder strap.
Interior Description
Matching leather or chevron canvas lining. One large main compartment, one zip pocket, and two front flat slip pockets for organization.
Closure Type
Front flap with a turn-lock swivel clasp and two wrap-around leather straps (sanglons) similar to the Birkin and Kelly.
Strap & Handle Details
Wide, adjustable leather shoulder strap with five holes for length adjustment and a padded shoulder slide for comfort.
Craftsmanship Details
Expert hand-finished edges, precision in the heat-stamped 'Hermès Paris Made in France' (hidden under flap), and perfectly even stitch tension.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the front flap, crispness of the metallic hardware engraving, and the signature upward-angled saddle stitching. The proportions of the strap brackets are consistent with authentic 34 models.
Origin & Manufacturing
Made in France at Hermès ateliers. Features high-standard artisanal craftsmanship including hand-painted edges.
Era & Period
Contemporary (introduced 2008). Designed during Gaultier's tenure as artistic director to evoke a more casual, 'gypsy' nomadic version of the Birkin.
Age Estimate
Circa 2010-2022. The model maintains a consistent look, though the size 34 has been phased in and out of production in favor of the 28 and 31.
Cultural Significance
Represented a shift in the late 2000s toward 'Quiet Luxury' before the term existed—highly recognizable to the 'in-crowd' but logo-less to the public.
Condition Notes
Excellent; shows characteristic Clemence slouch and 'veining'. No visible corner wear or hardware tarnishing in the image. Shape is soft, which is natural for this leather type.
Value Estimate
Retail roughly $9,500 - $10,500. Resale market currently ranges from $4,500 to $6,500 depending on color and stamp year.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft cloth; use a leather conditioner specifically for Clemence yearly. Store in a dust bag stuffed with acid-free paper to maintain the base curve.
Similar Handbags
Hermès Evelyne (more casual, no flap), Hermès Steve Messenger (more masculine/rectilinear), and the Chanel messenger bags (more structured with chain).
Interesting Facts
The bag was inspired by the idea of a 'Birkin for the nomadic life'. Jean-Paul Gaultier wanted a bag that felt worn-in and practical for travel.