The Museum of Bags and Purses

A temple to the tote, Amsterdam's Museum of Bags and Purses is the largest museum of bags in the world. The museum contains an extensive collection - a collection of 4,000 bags, pouches, cases and accessories that illustrates the history of women's purses in Western culture. The collection is very diverse, it ranges from the 17th century pouches to bags from the 20th and 21st century of famous designers such as Schiaparelli, Hermes, Chanel, Dolce Gabbana, Lulu Guinness and more. The Tassen Museum Hendrikje is housed in the former home of Pieter de Graeff - one of the richest individuals of the Dutch Golden Age (17th century) - who embellished the building with ornate paintings and decorative finishes by artists and artisans.
" A woman's mind is as complex as the contents of her handbag.... there is always something at the bottom to surprise you." Comedian Billy Connoly

Inside the Museum

Pieces from the permanent collection

Velvet pouch with silver balls, the Netherlands, 17th century

Goat's leather bag, France, 16th century

Aluminium clutch, France, 1930

Wallet with love poem and miniature, France, 1800

American telephone bag, 1980

Exotic handbags

To see more on the permanent collection, go to the Museum of Bags and Purses
Courtesy Dossier