Vintage Marrakech Tooled Leather Handbag — Rare Marrakchi Craft

This is a wonderful vintage Marrakech style tooled leather handbag with warm orange tones, traditional Marrakchi patterning and a structured, classic shape. It's a rare example of older Moroccan craftsmanship that is becoming harder to find! 

I found this piece in a small Moroccan shop, resting behind a row of more modern bags. The colour and the tooled patterning caught my eye straight away. When I picked it up, the seller noticed straight away and his whole expression changed.

He told me he used to see bags like this being made when he was a child, back when Marrakchi artisans spent hours shaping the leather, pressing each pattern by hand and forming the pleated base and scalloped edging. He said this older style rarely appears now as fewer workshops use these slower, traditional methods. It felt like we both understood its value the moment it was lifted down.

Features

• Marrakchi tooled patterning on front, sides and base

• Warm orange toned leather

• Structured vintage silhouette

• Scalloped flap edge

• Pleated lower panel

• Wrapped leather handles

• Secure flap closure

• Stands upright due to firm base

Materials

• 100% genuine leather

• Traditional hand tooling

• Patterns pressed individually

• Rigid structure from older workshop methods

• Natural variations and patina from age
  

Sizing
Height: 30 cm
Width: 37 cm
Depth: 12.5 cm
Strap length: 75 cm

Condition
Excellent vintage condition with an even patina. No major marks or structural issues – the shape is solid and the interior is clean. There is a darker mark on part of the handle (shown in the photos); it’s purely cosmetic and, to my eye, just adds to its vintage character.

Care
Avoid water. Wipe with a soft cloth. Condition lightly if needed. Store padded to maintain its shape.

Why it’s special
This style of Marrakchi hand tooling and shaping is now uncommon in modern markets. It’s the kind of piece that appears only occasionally in small Moroccan shops, recognised by those who value traditional craftsmanship.