Skip to main content

Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

American, Hungarian, 1921-2018

When it comes to handbags, no designer can compete with Judith Leiber’s ability to create magic using opulent crystals and wildly imaginative and playful shapes. The Hungarian-born designer's lauded vintage minaudières (small, decorative handbags, often without handles or a strap) were made in the form of crystal-covered swans, cupcakes, lipstick, wads of cash, teddy bears and other delightful objects.

These dazzling objets d’art have been regularly seen in the hands of First Ladies, movie stars on the red carpet and even in the prestigious collections of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And like many pathbreaking inventions in the history of design, Leiber's purses and minaudières were the result of a happy accident.

In 1967, Leiber began working on her first metal handbag. The piece in question was named the Chatelaine, and the design was a graceful drop-shaped purse in gold-tinted metal. But when the samples came in, Leiber saw that the bottom of the bag looked greenish and discolored as a result of the plating process. She had the ingenious idea of applying crystal rhinestones to the base to cover up the flaws. The fabulous bag was a huge success and would become her trademark.

Born Judith Peto in Budapest, Leiber overcame many hardships before her breakthrough. At the start of World War II, she was working at the Pessl handbag company in Budapest where she quickly climbed the ranks to become a master craftswoman. When the war escalated, she and her Jewish family were forced by the Nazis to live in a cellar of a ghetto, and several of her relatives were killed in concentration camps.

“I designed handbags in my head to get through the misery,” Leiber said.

After the liberation of Budapest, she married Gerson “Gus” Leiber, an American GI, and moved to New York. In 1948, she began working for the fashion house Nettie Rosenstein. One of Leiber's first major pieces was the handbag embroidered with glittering rhinestones and pearls carried by Mamie Eisenhower at the 1953 inaugural ball. In 1963, she finally set up her own company.

Leiber’s whimsical designs embellished with Swarovski crystals and semiprecious stones defied traditional notions of luxury handbags. She also created striking clutches and bags with leather and fine textiles from around the world. In her 65-year career, she designed over 3,500 bags, which have been worn by First Ladies including Nancy Reagan and Laura Bush, pop icons like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez and celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kris Jenner (who collects Judith Leiber bags).

In 2005, the Leiber Collection Museum opened in East Hampton, New York, as a permanent space to showcase her work. The minaudières remain coveted objects that are celebrated worldwide for their eclectic beauty and glamorous charm.

The value of a good handbag cannot be overstated — find vintage Judith Leiber shoulder bags, crossbody bags, sunglasses and other fashion accessories today on 1stDibs.

to
1
3
3

Use search to find more

1
1
3
2
1
3
1
1
1
1

Use search to find more

205
1,535
674
520
498

Use search to find more

Creator: Judith Leiber
Judith Leiber Millennium Minaudiere, Clutch and/or Purse
Judith Leiber Millennium Minaudiere, Clutch and/or Purse

Judith Leiber Millennium Minaudiere, Clutch and/or Purse

By Judith Leiber

Located in Guaynabo, PR

This is a Judith Leiber minaudiere, clutch and/or purse. It depicts a small rectangular metal box wrapped with an ocean blue palette, green, yellow, brown and beige color paper illus...

Category

20th Century American Modern Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal, Metal

Judith Leiber Hardshell Purse/Handbag
Judith Leiber Hardshell Purse/Handbag

Judith Leiber Hardshell Purse/Handbag

By Judith Leiber

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Great form, signed inside.

Category

1960s American Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Brass

Vintage Judith Leiber Bedazzled Compact Mirror
Vintage Judith Leiber Bedazzled Compact Mirror

Vintage Judith Leiber Bedazzled Compact Mirror

By Judith Leiber

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

This vintage Judith Leiber bedazzled compact mirror captures the glamour and meticulous ornament of the designer’s celebrated accessories. The compact is embellished with sparkling r...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Metal

Related Items
Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact and Card Case
Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact and Card Case

Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact and Card Case

$375

H 0.32 in W 3.5 in D 2.5 in

Art Deco Sterling Silver Compact and Card Case

Located in Pasadena, CA

This is a beautifully crafted Art Deco period Sterling Silver Lady's Compact or necessaire. This stunning engraved and monogrammed compact opens to reveal a sterling silver interior with fittings for two different types of coins and a covered powder dispenser...

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Sterling Silver

Elegant Gold and Diamond Compact by Van Cleef & Arpels, Circa 1935-40
Elegant Gold and Diamond Compact by Van Cleef & Arpels, Circa 1935-40

Elegant Gold and Diamond Compact by Van Cleef & Arpels, Circa 1935-40

By Van Cleef & Arpels

Located in Miami, US

This exquisite compact, crafted by the renowned Maison Van Cleef & Arpels, exemplifies the artistry and sophistication of the late Art Deco period. Rectangular in shape, the compact ...

Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Gold

Art Deco Sterling Combination Coin Compact Card Case, American, circa 1920
Art Deco Sterling Combination Coin Compact Card Case, American, circa 1920

Art Deco Sterling Combination Coin Compact Card Case, American, circa 1920

$356Sale Price|40% Off

H 3.625 in W 2.5 in D 0.2 in

Art Deco Sterling Combination Coin Compact Card Case, American, circa 1920

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Art Deco sterling combination coin compact card or cigarette Case, American, circa 1920 by Webster Co. Rectangular cushion shape with hand chain attached. Opens to reveal half and fu...

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Sterling Silver

Egyptian Revival Compact/Cigarette Case, Sterling Silver & Enamel, Art Deco
Egyptian Revival Compact/Cigarette Case, Sterling Silver & Enamel, Art Deco

Egyptian Revival Compact/Cigarette Case, Sterling Silver & Enamel, Art Deco

$2,360Sale Price|20% Off

H 3 in W 2.25 in D 0.38 in

Egyptian Revival Compact/Cigarette Case, Sterling Silver & Enamel, Art Deco

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This rare -- perhaps unique -- enameled cigarette case or compact features a cartouche with a kneeling Egyptian figure surrounded by symbols and hieroglyphics on its lid, all in tone...

Category

1920s German Art Deco Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Silver

Antique Imperial Russian Silver Cloisonne Enamel Coin Purse Case Moscow 1899
Antique Imperial Russian Silver Cloisonne Enamel Coin Purse Case Moscow 1899

Antique Imperial Russian Silver Cloisonne Enamel Coin Purse Case Moscow 1899

Located in Portland, OR

A fine antique Pre-Revolution Russian Imperial silver-gilt & cloisonné enamel coin purse/case, Moscow, 1899. The purse with the maker's mark in Cyrillic and the assayer's mark for Iv...

Category

Late 19th Century Russian Late Victorian Antique Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Silver, Enamel

Armenian Alphabet by Line Vautrin, Gilt Bronze Compact
Armenian Alphabet by Line Vautrin, Gilt Bronze Compact

Armenian Alphabet by Line Vautrin, Gilt Bronze Compact

By Line Vautrin

Located in Uccle, BE

Line Vautrin was inspired by the Armenian alphabet to create this very pretty compact whose lid and reverse are entirely carved with the characters o...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Bronze

Oversized Vintage French Silver Compact Case by Boucheron
Oversized Vintage French Silver Compact Case by Boucheron

Oversized Vintage French Silver Compact Case by Boucheron

By Boucheron

Located in Atlanta, GA

A large silver compact case with gilt surface and inset rubies by Boucheron Paris circa 1930s-1940s, of Art Deco period and style. The silver case is quote large compared to similar ...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Multi-gemstone, Silver

Collection of Three Art Deco Beaded and Embroidered Handbags
Collection of Three Art Deco Beaded and Embroidered Handbags

Collection of Three Art Deco Beaded and Embroidered Handbags

Located in Astoria, NY

Collection of Three Art Deco Handbags, comprising: one Whiting & Davis Co. mesh bag marked inside and engraved "Pearl Cohen", a French embroidered handbag with pineapple motif an...

Category

Early 20th Century Art Deco Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Metal

French Art Deco Sterling Silver with Gemstone Rosetta Compact Case by Cartier
French Art Deco Sterling Silver with Gemstone Rosetta Compact Case by Cartier

French Art Deco Sterling Silver with Gemstone Rosetta Compact Case by Cartier

By Cartier

Located in Atlanta, GA

A fine Cartier compact case in the iconic Art Deco style, circa 1930s. Sterling silver with gold gilt interior that feature a mirror and a compartment for powder. The exterior featur...

Category

1930s French Art Deco Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Multi-gemstone, Silver

1930s Art Deco Houbigant Paris Floral Basket Motif Triple Folding Compact
1930s Art Deco Houbigant Paris Floral Basket Motif Triple Folding Compact

1930s Art Deco Houbigant Paris Floral Basket Motif Triple Folding Compact

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A triple folding makeup compact from Houbigant Paris, circa 1930. The Art Deco Era design features a hexagonal gold-tone metal case with the iconic Houbigant flower basket motif on ...

Category

1930s French Art Deco Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Metal

1930's Art Deco Bonjour Navy Ladies Octogonal Makeup Compact w/ Mirror & Puff
1930's Art Deco Bonjour Navy Ladies Octogonal Makeup Compact w/ Mirror & Puff

1930's Art Deco Bonjour Navy Ladies Octogonal Makeup Compact w/ Mirror & Puff

Located in Red Lion, PA

1930s Bourjois Art Deco Navy Blue Enamel and Chrome Makeup Compact with Unused Powder and Puff This exquisite 1930s Art Deco Bourjois compact exemplifies the sophistication and mode...

Category

1930s French Art Deco Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Metal, Enamel

Antique Italian Silver Mesh Handbag, Beaux Arts Style, 1870
Antique Italian Silver Mesh Handbag, Beaux Arts Style, 1870

Antique Italian Silver Mesh Handbag, Beaux Arts Style, 1870

Located in Alessandria, Piemonte

G/409 - Antique, perfect, rare Italian evening handbag in silver mesh. What's better for a beautiful present ?

Category

Late 19th Century Italian Beaux Arts Antique Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Silver

Hermès Paris French Sterling Silver Compact Case
Hermès Paris French Sterling Silver Compact Case

Hermès Paris French Sterling Silver Compact Case

$1,195

H 0.38 in W 3.25 in D 2.75 in

Hermès Paris French Sterling Silver Compact Case

By Hermès

Located in Victoria, BC

An elegant French sterling silver compact case by Hermès Paris, distinguished by its refined linear design, exceptional construction, and understated luxury characteristic of the cel...

Category

1960s French Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Sterling Silver

A Boucheron Paris 18k Gold  Silver & Ruby Vermeil Minaudiere Circa 1940
A Boucheron Paris 18k Gold  Silver & Ruby Vermeil Minaudiere Circa 1940

A Boucheron Paris 18k Gold Silver & Ruby Vermeil Minaudiere Circa 1940

$6,675Sale Price|25% Off

H 3.63 in W 5 in D 1.25 in

A Boucheron Paris 18k Gold Silver & Ruby Vermeil Minaudiere Circa 1940

By Boucheron

Located in Tarzana, CA

A Boucheron Paris 18k Gold, Silver & Ruby Vermeil Minaudiere Circa 1940, of rectangular form with a hinged cover the top of the cover with pierced vermeil scrolling foliage the flow...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Aesthetic Movement Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Gold, Silver

Cartier Powder case for handbag fired Enamel Sterling Silver made by Salimbeni
Cartier Powder case for handbag fired Enamel Sterling Silver made by Salimbeni

Cartier Powder case for handbag fired Enamel Sterling Silver made by Salimbeni

By Cartier, Salimbeni

Located in Firenze, FI

Sterling silver powder case, produced for Cartier, fired enamel manufactured by Salimbeni. Powder case for handbag in 925/1000 sterling silver with black and red fired enamel. Openi...

Category

1980s Italian Art Deco Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Sterling Silver, Enamel

Previously Available Items
Vintage Judith Lieber Lion Minaudiere Silver Toned Jewelry Box
Vintage Judith Lieber Lion Minaudiere Silver Toned Jewelry Box

Vintage Judith Lieber Lion Minaudiere Silver Toned Jewelry Box

Sold

H 4.25 in W 5.75 in D 2.75 in L 4.25 in

Vintage Judith Lieber Lion Minaudiere Silver Toned Jewelry Box

By Judith Leiber

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

A vintage Judith Lieber lion minaudiere silver jewelry box. This is a gorgeous vintage silver jewelry box, handmade and polished. This box features a...

Category

Late 20th Century American Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Metal

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystals Temari Ball Minaudier / Clutch
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystals Temari Ball Minaudier / Clutch

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystals Temari Ball Minaudier / Clutch

By Judith Leiber

Located in Guaynabo, PR

This is a Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystals Minaudiere / Clutch. It depicts a gold and silver tone metal globe shaped minaudière. It is adorned with multiple clear and silver like col...

Category

20th Century American Modern Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Floral Minaudiere / Clutch
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Floral Minaudiere / Clutch

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Floral Minaudiere / Clutch

By Judith Leiber

Located in Guaynabo, PR

This is a Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystals Minaudiere / Clutch. It depicts a rectangular silver tone metal shaped minaudiere adorned with a large rose flower with green leaves. Large...

Category

20th Century American Modern Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Floral Minaudiere / Clutch
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Floral Minaudiere / Clutch

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Floral Minaudiere / Clutch

By Judith Leiber

Located in Guaynabo, PR

This is a Judith Leiber Swarovski crystals minaudiere / clutch. It depicts a gold tone metal heart shaped minaudiere adorned with a large peony flower with green leaves in the front and a semi close one in the back. Long branches of green leaves also decorate the front and back of the clutch. Multiples Swarovski crystals of blue, gold, pink, garnet like, light green and clear color embedded in the metal create these mosaic that embellish this unique clutch...

Category

20th Century American Modern Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal, Metal

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Gold Sleeping Cat Trinket Keepsake Pill Ring Box
Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Gold Sleeping Cat Trinket Keepsake Pill Ring Box

Judith Leiber Swarovski Crystal Gold Sleeping Cat Trinket Keepsake Pill Ring Box

By Swarovski, Judith Leiber

Located in Dayton, OH

Vintage Judith Leiber gold toned metal trinket or keepsake box in the shape of a sleeping cat with a Swarovski crystal bow decorated in red, white and bl...

Category

Late 20th Century Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Crystal, Metal

Rare Judith Leiber Asian Holiday Jeweled Vases
Rare Judith Leiber Asian Holiday Jeweled Vases

Rare Judith Leiber Asian Holiday Jeweled Vases

By Judith Leiber

Located in Montreal, QC

Awesome and unique vintage Judith Leiber Asian holiday vases, beautifully decorated with bird and flower motifs and adorned with multicolored crystals. The vases measure 5.75" tall e...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

Materials

Metal

Judith Leiber decorative objects for sale on 1stDibs.

Judith Leiber decorative objects are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of metal and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Judith Leiber decorative objects, although silver editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original decorative objects by Judith Leiber were created in the modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider decorative objects by Jerry Meatyard, James Lovera, and Fish Design. Prices for Judith Leiber decorative objects can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $785 and can go as high as $3,150, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $855.

Questions About Judith Leiber Decorative Objects

  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Judith Leiber was a designer who specialized in creating imaginative handbags. She was born on January 11, 1921, in Budapest, Hungary, and died on April 28, 2018, in Springs, New York. You'll find a collection of Judith Leiber on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    You have many options for where to buy Judith Leiber. If you prefer to shop virtually, browse the brand's official online store or find the brand's bags on reputable online platforms, including 1stDibs. Numerous brick-and-mortar stores around the country also carry Judith Leiber. You'll find a selection of Judith Leiber handbags and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Models for Judith Leiber change from year to year and season to season. Valentina Sampaio was the face of the brand for photo shoots in 2020. In 2019, Emily DiDonato posed with Judith Leiber bags for the designer's spring campaign. Find a variety of Judith Leiber bags and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How you wear a Judith Leiber handbag is a matter of personal preference. Many of the brand's bags have playful shapes that allow them to work as well with jeans as they do with evening attire. Some people prefer to keep their jewelry understated when carrying a Judith Leiber to keep the emphasis on the statement bag. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Judith Leiber.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Yes, Judith Leiber handbags are handmade. Skilled artisans hand sew the bags to ensure quality. In addition, the team of craftsmen applies the brand's signature rhinestone and crystal beading by hand. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Judith Leiber handbags.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Where Judith Leiber sunglasses are made varies. Match Eyewear produces sunglasses for the brand. An in-house factory in Italy manufactures some of the company's eyewear, and third-party factories located throughout the world receive contracts to produce some models. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Judith Leiber sunglasses.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To clean a Judith Leiber handbag, follow the care instructions printed on the label inside the lining or on the care card that accompanied the bag. Most bags require use of a soft, dry cloth. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Judith Leiber handbags.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Judith Leiber is famed for her eclectic clutch bags. Her designs range from crystal-studded flamingos and ice cream cones to standard, sparkling rectangle shapes. On 1stDibs, you can find a collection of authentic Judith Leiber clutches from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
    Many fashion lovers believe that Judith Leiber bags are worth it. When it comes to handbags, no designer can compete with Judith Leiber’s ability to create magic using opulent crystals and wildly imaginative and playful shapes. The Hungarian-born designer's lauded vintage minaudières (small, decorative handbags, often without handles or a strap) were made in the form of crystal-covered swans, cupcakes, lipstick, wads of cash, teddy bears and other delightful objects. These dazzling objets d’art have been regularly seen in the hands of First Ladies, movie stars on the red carpet and even in the prestigious collections of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Judith Leiber bags is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find a range of Judith Leiber bags and other bags on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The best way to tell if a Judith Leiber bag is original is to check the designer's stamp usually found along the metal frame or above a seam. The style of the stamp varied over the years, but usually included the brand name. On a genuine Judith Leiber bag, the stamp will appear evenly spaced. Find a selection of expertly vetted Judith Leiber handbags on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Generally, the lining of a Judith Leiber Minaudière purse is genuine leather. Skilled artisans craft these statement-making mini bags by hand, and the designs often include rhinestone and crystal beading. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Judith Leiber Minaudière purses.