(RARE) 2007 Gucci Black Python Race Tote Bag

A 2007 Gucci Race tote in black python, from Frida Giannini's Spring/Summer 2007 collection.

The Race belongs to the Indy family, the racing-themed line Giannini built that season. The Indy bags took their cues from motor racing: the hobo's curved handle was shaped after the steering wheels of vintage sports cars, and the whole line was finished in bolted metal corner plates that look like they came off a car body. The Race is the tote version, with the same plates and the same bamboo and suede tassels. Python and crocodile were offered as the exotic options, and we haven't been able to find another black python Race tote for sale anywhere online.

It's a wide, structured tote in glossy black python, trimmed with black suede piping and panels. The chrome is what makes it: a "Gucci" script plate at the centre of the top, hinged chrome clasp plates at each top corner, and four angled chrome plates bolted across the lower corners. Each side has a suede drawcord through a chrome grommet, finished with Gucci bamboo toggles and long suede tassels studded at the tips. Two rolled suede top handles, long enough to wear on the shoulder. Inside, it's lined in metallic silver leather, with a leather-trimmed zip pocket and a fabric-lined pocket.

Style and serial number: 177091 002122. Made in Italy.