The bag, which features Birkin's initials "J.B." on the flap and, unlike its descendants, has a strap that cannot be removed, was purchased by a private Japanese buyer over the phone, Sotheby's said.

Scuffed, scratched and stained, this black leather Birkin bag just sold for €8.6 million ($10 million), with fees, becoming the most expensive handbag to ever sell at auction. The hammer fell at a ...

The former London home of Chilean artist Roberto Matta came to the market on Wednesday for £4.95 million (US$6.67 million).