The BAG - The handbag is so much more than a practical everyday companion: it is a status symbol, an object of desire, an expression of identity, and a versatile container for any occasion. Featuring around 300 stunning examples from five continents, this richly illustrated book traces the evolution of an accessory that, like few others, reflects fashion, culture, and the spirit of the times.

From its functional origins in the early 19th century to the legendary "it" bags of the major couture houses, this volume explores the interplay of masterful craftsmanship, influential designs, and social symbolism. Through social contexts, this opulent visual history tells the story of the handbag as a portable work of art and a stylistic element.

This book expands upon classical fashion history, fostering a multifaceted dialogue with sociology, cultural history, and aesthetics. An elegant reference work for fashion, style, and art enthusiasts, as well as anyone who wants not only to wear fashion but also to understand it within its cultural context.

Antonio Mancinelli is a well-known journalist, essayist, curator, and lecturer. He views fashion as an aesthetic, social, and political phenomenon. In the writings of the former editor-in-chief of Marie Claire, incisive cultural criticism is combined with elegant storytelling.