The Hermès Shogun collection, launched in 1994, consisted of four bags (two shoulder bags and two clutches) inspired by the intricately detailed armor of Edo period Samurai warriors. These bags are exceedingly hard to find today and are highly sought after by collectors for their unrivaled level of craftsmanship, and for the sheer beauty of their design. This example, sometimes referred to as the “Vader” bag for its similarity in appearance to Darth Vader’s famous mask, rebukes the dark side and is instead rendered in delicate Blanc Casse Calf Box leather with chocolate Chèvre gills and lining. This bag has two striking and unique features found on nearly no other Hermès design: the wooden horn secured to the front for closure, and the delicate threadwork around the base of the handles and the rim of the bag. The delicate kidney shape of the bag’s body allows it to sit comfortably when worn over the shoulder. It doesn’t take an experts eye to see that this is the work of a true master of leather craft!