5-Day Intensive

Handbag Authentication

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Date
July 6 – 10, 2026
Time
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM GMT
Duration
5 Days
Location
London
Program
5-Day Intensive
Mode of Learning
In-Person
Price
Price
£1950
Early Booking Rate
£1800
Early booking rate for Jul 6 class ends Feb 2. Other terms subject to regular rate.
Language
English
Topics
Art Business, Specializations & Skills, Luxury
Contact Admissions

+44 (0)20 7462 3232 +1 646-438-7268 shortcourses@sia.edu

Step into the world of luxury and craftsmanship through this five-day immersive programme dedicated to the art and business of handbag authentication.

Based in London, a global hub of fashion heritage and high-end resale, the course offers rare access to experts, ateliers, and auction houses that define the standards of authenticity in today’s luxury market.

From the meticulous stitches of a Hermès Birkin to the timeless elegance of Chanel’s 2.55, the course explores how to distinguish genuine craftsmanship from imitation through hands-on analysis and close examination of materials, hardware, and brand codes.

Interactive lectures and practical workshops are complemented by exclusive visits to leading dealers in Knightsbridge, the museums, and auction houses, offering direct insight into how authenticity and provenance impact value in the secondary market.

Industry specialists, authenticators, and luxury resellers share their expertise on how technology, sustainability, and consumer behaviour are redefining the future of fashion credibility.

Throughout the week, students will develop a connoisseurial eye, learning to read the subtle language of leather grain, stitching techniques, date codes, and hardware engraving.

Whether the goal is to advance a career in collecting, curation, retail, or luxury consultancy, this course offers a rare opportunity to deepen knowledge of craftsmanship, brand heritage, and market trust.

Graduates leave with practical skills, critical insight, and an insider’s understanding of how authenticity continues to define the value and desirability of luxury handbags.

Students who complete this course are eligible to receive a partial tuition fee waiver equivalent to $2,000 USD if they subsequently enroll in one of our Master’s Degree Programs at our New York, London, or Online locations (pending application and acceptance to the Master’s Degree program). For further details, please see our Student Policies.

Learning Outcomes

  • Identify and evaluate the key components that determine the authenticity of luxury handbags.
  • Understand brand-specific craftsmanship, materials, and serial coding systems used in authentication.
  • Critically assess the influence of fashion history and brand heritage on design and authenticity.
  • Apply authentication techniques to real-world examples through field visits and case studies.
  • Analyse how the secondary market, including dealers and auction houses, influences valuation and authenticity standards.

Photo by Arno Senoner on Unsplash

Highlights

Specialized Art World Knowledge

Build critical thinking skills and gain in-depth insight into key topics shaping today’s global art market.

Designed for Every Art World Path

Varying formats for art enthusiasts, students, working professionals, or those considering a career pivot.

Career-Focused Content

Develop practical skills and industry understanding to support career development in an array of fields.

Sample Schedule

Day 1

Begin your exploration of handbag authentication by discussing the key concepts and ideas of where and how to differentiate the key components of handbags.

Day 2

Learn about the key authentications point of different brands, including Louis Vuitton Christian Dior and Gucci. Visit a notable Knightsbridge dealer to learn more about their business model and experience in luxury sector.

Day 3

A day of immersive learning of the brand Chanel. Starting from the history of the iconic house to the key concepts of authenticating handbags and couture. With a visit to the exhibition of Schiaparelli: Fashion Becomes Art at the V&A, to discuss the relationship between Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel.

Day 4

Explore and discuss the iconic brand, Hermès, with specific dive into its authentication and secondary market pricing structure. Hear from an expert and pioneer in Hermès dealership, on the current trend and market of Hermès bags.

Day 5

Develop your new skills by researching and presenting a key player in authentication. Visit Rosebery’s auction house to preview an upcoming luxury sale and examine lots that will be on offer.

Faculty

Course Leader, London

Sally He joined Roseberys in 2023 and is a key member of the Probates, Estates & Insurance Valuations Department, as well as a Luxury Items specialist. Sally expanded her expertise by taking on the role of founding and developing the Luxury Department in 2024. She oversees the Luxury Items section of the Watches & Luxury Items sales, held four times annually alongside Jewellery sales.

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Details

Sample Topics

  • Foundations of Authentication
  • Brand identity and authentication: Louis Vuitton Christian Dior and Gucci
  • The Making of an Icon: The 2.55 and the Classic Flap
  • Counterfeit Challenges: The Rise of “Superfakes” in the Hermès Market
  • The Future of Authentication: Ethics, Transparency, and Consumer Education

Course Completion

Course participants take away in-depth and valuable insight into the current and future art world, to be sufficiently prepared for a wide-ranging career within the art industry. Those who successfully complete their course will receive a certificate of completion from Sotheby’s Institute of Art.

Sotheby’s Institute of Art course participants come from all over the world, from a wide variety of backgrounds. As they study, travel, and explore the art world alongside each other throughout the program, fierce and long-lasting collaborations are frequently born. Individuals who complete these courses join our network of over 8,000 alumni around the globe who hold top positions at renowned art organizations.

Students who complete this course are eligible to receive a partial tuition fee waiver equivalent to $2,000 USD if they subsequently enroll in one of our Master’s Degree Programs at our New York, London, or Online locations (pending application and acceptance to the Master’s Degree program). For further details, please see our Student Policies.

Requirements

English Language Requirement
Course participants should be proficient in written and spoken English and be able to participate in group discussions and presentations in English. It is recommended that participants have the equivalent level of IELTS score of 6.0 /TOEFL score of 78 IBT, however evidence of test scores is not required to register.

Age Requirement
Courses are open to participants 18 years of age or older, however, we prefer that students have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience to be able to properly engage in the course.

For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions.

Book A Consultation

We encourage interested individuals to book a consultation time with a member of our admissions team to learn more about this course and our registration process.

Please use this link to book a consultation time via phone or video call.

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