A fine and rare 1940s Anne-Marie of France novelty handbag. Made from black kid leather and in the shape of a telephone, with the telephone receiver holder functioning as the lever clasp to open the bag. Inside is a black satin lined compartment with one internal pocket. The bag’s hardware is in brass which includes the telephone dial itself, edges of the ear and mouth receivers and the frame. Inscribed 'Anne-Marie, Paris, Ope. 44-39'.

In terms of condition, this is verging on excellent with some age appropriate wear. It has been in Circa's collection for many years. There is the slightest wear on the edges of the front of the bag. Light wear to the edges of the corners. The bottom of the bag’s leather is in quite remarkable condition and all other surface areas are excellent with no fading. There are no dents or inclusions save for a small nick on the telephone receiver around 3-4mm. The gold paint is rubbing off the rotary dials and the first three letters of Anne-Marie are faded. Slight parting of frame by hinge only when open - looks perfect shut. All very minor and could be restored if desired - we have left that to the new owner.

Anne-Marie's shop was on the ground floor of the Hôtel Meurice where she sold small luxury goods including gloves and perfume, to the Parisian elite. However, she is best known for the wonderfully detailed figural handbags that the hotel's VIP guests were often gifted during a stay. These novelty surrealist bags are well documented and other examples include a “piano bag” with keys, a “cocktail bar” bag with miniature spirit bottles, an "ice bucket" full of lucite ice cubes and an ice tong as well as a “Champagne bucket” with, well, you know what. Anne-Marie bags are owned by major fashion and historical museums worldwide including the New York Metropolitan Museum. These 1940s bags were designed as collectors items and are increasingly rare to market in display condition. This is one is for the fine vintage collector, creative director or curator as these original and whimsical bags have never been equalled.

MEASUREMENTS:
Height without strap - 13.5 in (34.3 cm)
Height with strap - 7 in (17.8 cm)
Width - 6 in (15.2 cm)
Depth - 5 in (12.7 cm)