Carlos Peñafiel Collection

Each season, LEMAIRE expands its collection of molded leather accessories, refining a technique that merges functionality with sculptural craftsmanship. These pieces, distinguished by their fluid, organic lines, are primarily crafted in the Cadiz region of Spain, where the town of Ubrique upholds a long-standing tradition of artisanal leatherwork. The molding process allows each object to take on unique, sculpted volumes, preserving the hand of the artisan in every curve.

This collection now extends beyond molded leather bags, encompassing a broader range of functional accessories that embody LEMAIRE’s vision: Wearable Sculptures, where form and utility are in perfect balance.

This collection is deeply rooted in an artistic exchange that began over a decade ago between LEMAIRE and Chilean artist Carlos Peñafiel, whose traveling exhibition, Wearable Sculptures, explores the intersection of contemporary art and traditional craftsmanship. By repurposing molding and sculpting techniques, Peñafiel challenges the function and perception of accessories, echoing LEMAIRE’s approach to design.

Two iconic designs emerged from this collaboration:

- The Egg bag, with its curved, fluid silhouette, embodies the harmony between sculpture and leather craftsmanship. Its distinctive design combines generous volume and refined lines, offering an elegant yet functional alternative.

- The Carlos bag, named after the artist and artisan behind its creation, features a smooth, shell-like structure with bold proportions, making it a standout piece within LEMAIRE’s collections .

As part of the Wearable Sculptures exhibition, LEMAIRE also presents a series of limited-edition molded leather coin purses designed by Peñafiel.

Each piece is sensitive to the asperities of the artisan's hand, resulting in unique creations that embody LEMAIRE's creative musings and leather savoir-faire. Carlos Peñafiel Shell Coin Purse : this piece features a shell-like design that emphasizes fluid lines and natural curves. Carlos Peñafiel Breast Coin Purse: inspired by organic forms, this purse presents a voluptuous silhouette that reflects the sensuality of Carlos Peñafiel's work. Carlos Peñafiel Castanet Coin Purse : this design takes inspiration from the iconic castanets, with a playful, rounded form.

To complement the collection, LEMAIRE presents a monograph by Éditions Siegelbaum-Tran, founded by Sarah-Linh Tran , co-artistic director of LEMAIRE. The publication explores the creative journey of Carlos Peñafiel, unveiling his prolific imagination and artistic vision. Rich in photographs and archives, the book delves into his exploration of molded leather, wood, and bronze, revealing the dreamlike and anthropomorphic potential of his work. It is a tribute to the poetic and sensual world that defines his creations, offering a unique insight into his collaboration with LEMAIRE.

Explore the collection online and in stores, where sculpture and craftsmanship converge in a selection of artisanal accessories designed to be worn, admired, and reinterpreted over time. The Wearable Sculptures exhibition by Carlos Peñafiel will be on view from March 3 to March 23, 2025, at LEMAIRE’s Flagship, 1 rue Elzévir, 75003 Paris.