Moynat launches iconic Réjane bag exclusive to Singapore
The exclusive Crocodile Céramique design is inspired by the ancient glazing of Asian ceramics.
French luxury atelier Moynat will be launching its iconic Réjane bag in a design exclusive to Singapore, to celebrate the opening of its first boutique here. Inspired by the ancient glazing of Asian ceramics, the Réjane in Crocodile Céramique is the embodiment of all the luxury and savoir-faire of the design house.
East Meets West
The Réjane, arguably Moynat’s most coveted model, was born from the lifelong friendship between founder Pauline Moynat and Gabrielle Réjane, a renowned French stage actress towards the end of the 19th century. (A little known fact is that the Réjane is actually the first handbag ever to be named after a celebrity, paving the way for the future Alexas and Birkins.)
The attention to detail in the construction of the Réjane is outstanding. It takes an experienced artisan over 20 hours to construct the Réjane – a delicate process that entails various sophisticated dyeing and polishing techniques developed by Ramesh Nair, the artistic director behind the atelier, inspired by ancient Asian ceramic art.
To achieve the desired finish, its edges are meticulously painted and waxed eight times. Three to four colours, starting from light to dark, are then applied to the crocodile skins. After each layer of colour is applied, the skins are hand polished to reveal the underlying coat of colour. Because the crocodile scales are gently rounded, the polishing is crucial in determining how the colours are retained and revealed on each scale.
The final result? An intricate, delicate and layered hue that is truly unique to each skin, and beautifully mirrors the layered colours and unique crackling effect on ancient traditional Asian porcelains. The intricacy behind every step is testament to the house’s philosophy and aesthetic of deceptively simple designs that are intricate and delicate in execution.
Located in the heart of Takashimaya Shopping Centre, the newly-opened Moynat Gallery in Singapore carries men’s and women’s leather goods and accessories, trunks and textiles. Moynat’s first gallery at Ngee Ann City also marks the first boutique in Southeast Asia.
Sarah Khan
Photos: Moynat
