Hi Adriana,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Elsa Schiaparelli (1890–1973) was an Italian-born fashion designer who became one of the most influential figures in 20th-century fashion, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s. She is celebrated for her surrealist designs, innovative use of color and materials, and for challenging conventional notions of fashion and femininity.

Her handbags—and accessories in general—are important because they reflect her bold, artistic, and subversive approach to fashion; they often featured unconventional shapes or optical illusions, playing with the line between function and fantasy.

Schiaparelli introduced this design in the 1940s and many designers paid tribute to it by introducing the silhouette into their lines, but her original one is sought after by purist collectors who want original designs.

When these come to auction, ones in comparable condition usually sell for between $700 and $900, though retailers are currently offering comparable vintage examples - some refurbished - for retail prices ranging from $1,500-2,000.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage Elsa Schiaparelli black leather balloon bag
Made in Paris, circa mid 1940s
Of circular shape with single loop handle and brass fittings, lined zippered interior, signed.
12 by 12 inches
CONDITION: With some wear
PROVENANCE: Acquired in a second-hand store
$ 700-900*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia