WHAT: A gathering of some 300 minaudieres created by luxury handbag artist Judith Leiber brought more than $500,000 in a recent "white glove" sale at Heritage Auctions. White glove means 100 percent sold; to the walls. A spider minaudiere measuring 7 inches wide 4.5 inches high and 1.5 inches deep sold for $1,313. Top lot was a jeweled elephant evening minaudiere with cabochon garnet eyes that brought $4,000.
MORE: Minaudieres are small, usually hand-held handbags often seen clutched by celebrities or society mavens. Almost all are heavily jeweled evening bags. Leiber minaudieres feature hand-glued Swarovski crystals and often whimsical designs. The sale included a seashell sundial, flowers, a panda, a jeweled bow and more.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: Others also make minaudieres, but Judith Leiber is queen of the genre. Sold in upscale shops and boutiques, her bags are coveted by women throughout the world.
HOT TIP: Leiber's minaudieres are exquisite, and they don't come cheap at retail. Collectors know that they have a chance to own one for less at auction.
BOTTOM LINE: Certain Leiber bags appreciate in value. As art and collectibles, having one offers the best of all worlds: Use it now and gift it as an heirloom, or sell it later.
