Louis Vuitton Pochette Papillon Monogram

Specifications

Why we love it

Description & history

Louis Vuitton Pochette Papillon in Monogram coated canvas · leather handle and trim · gold brass · zip closure · hand carried · 16 × 7 cm · made in France · vintage piece · grade B.

Rounded bags are rare at Louis Vuitton. The Papillon is an exception: a cylinder of Monogram canvas, secured along its entire length with a zip, whose name evokes the butterfly silhouette created by its two loops once filled. The Pochette Papillon is its most intimate variation — identical design, identical craftsmanship, scaled down to hand-held proportions.

The real charm of this shape lies in its construction. The coated canvas must be shaped into a cylinder, bordered with natural leather at both ends, fitted with a perfectly straight zip across a curved surface, and finished with a handle that maintains its volume. It is a demanding feat of leather craftsmanship, made here in France, explaining why the Papillon has remained a stand-out icon in the house's collection.

In everyday use, the pouch embraces its compact size: 16 cm long, 7 cm in diameter. It holds a lipstick, a cardholder or keys, and AirPods. A mobile phone, however, will not fit — good to keep in mind before buying. It easily slips into a larger bag to organise small essentials, or can be carried alone in hand as an evening accessory whose sole embellishment is the iconic Monogram itself.

Lovely condition, grade B — the coated canvas is clean, and the light leather is pristine and unstained. Slight rubbing is present on the corners, but nothing more. The gold brass is in very good condition, and the interior is clean, free from stains and odours. No major flaws to note. The pouch will be carefully packed and delivered by RARR Vintage, complete with its dust bag and RARR Vintage certificate of authenticity.