The Red Leopard

We love to imagine the lady who requested this bespoke dream bag. Bold, red and boxy, with a leopard racing across the front. Was she always in a hurry, chasing her dreams? Perhaps trying to outrun and outsmart the patriarchy. You'll keep her spirit running strong with this fantastic little piece of history. Made by Martin Van Schaak, an elusive designer whose bags have been coveted by purse collectors for 80 years.   Mr. Van Schaak began working privately in the 1940's and by the 60's he had a small but powerful following of stars, aristocrats, and other fancy humans. Clients found him by word of mouth, and chose their bags during private appointments. Using his arsenal of phenomenal skins and findings, Mr. Van Schaak made a special bag for each individual. Ranging from subtle to outrageous, his purses were not only fashionable but top quality (and almost never carried in stores). He lived a long and full life, designing into his senior years. To own a Van Schaak was -and is- a lucky thing indeed. These remarkable vintage bags are an investment in more ways than one. Vintage reptile skin, leather, gold plated metal, and crystals. Bag measures 5" tall and just under 7" wide at base on the exterior; interior is about 6-6.5 and 2" deep. Fits a small phone (smaller than 6 inches long). Features two interior slip pockets, a cute pen pocket, and a sweet matching coin purse. Bag is in very good condition with some age seen at corners where the top lifts, more visible on the interior than exterior. (See last four photos.) Shipped with insurance and signature required on delivery. Leopards are in the genus Panthera, which includes four other species: snow leopard, tiger, lion, and jaguar. Leopards, snow leopards, and jaguars all have spotted patterns, which helps them blend in to their environment and sneak up on prey. Feather & Foxglove donates a portion of profits to environmental conservation and animal welfare organizations.