About fifty years ago, Dutch schoolchildren carried sturdy leather satchels to protect their books. These bags were produced in Brabant, a region in the Netherlands where the shoe and leather industry thrived. However, as economic and societal shifts took their toll, the factory producing these bags eventually went bankrupt.
Then, in 2016, during a renovation in Brabant, a basement was discovered—filled with forgotten pallets of old bag leather. What many saw as unusable material, others recognized as a hidden treasure, rich with history and character. The imperfections in the aged leather, once deemed undesirable, became its greatest strength. In Japan, this philosophy is known as wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection, of things that carry the marks of time and experience.
This rediscovered leather gave the bag a new depth: not just a sustainable product, but a social project. Crafted by a diverse group of artisans—including former inmates, individuals with dyslexia, and those navigating bureaucratic obstacles—the bag represents inclusivity, resilience, and second chances.
In 2024, this piece was exhibited in a Swiss museum alongside other Dutch Design icons. It embodies what Dutch design is known for: playfulness, irony, and social engagement. More than just an It-bag, it is a statement—both political and personal, proving that luxury can be redefined by heritage, craftsmanship, and a vision for the future.
