The bag possesses minimal details to highlight its clasp, which comes in the form of a panther – one of the maison’s most cherished emblems established in the ’40s by artistic director Jeanne Toussaint. This rendition of the majestic feline is a collaboration between Cartier’s leather goods and high jewellery studios, sculpted into an elegant “C” shape in golden or palladium finishes with black lacquered spots. Adding to the Panthere de Cartier’s day-to-evening versatility: its compact trapezoidal shape and detachable crossbody strap.

The Panthere de Cartier bags are made from palmellato leather – a type of calfskin that’s been artisanally treated to have a subtle, wavy grain; is scratch-resistant; and develops a glossy patina over time.

To make this bag even more cherished, one can customise it by hot-stamping initials or a date above the clasp, or engraving the accompanying mini mirror (you’ll find it slipped into the interior pocket when you purchase your bag).

Photography Phyllicia Wang Art Direction Jonathan Chia

This article first appeared in the March 2022 Liberation edition of FEMALE