The Ensis, a collaboration with Jonas Van Put

The Ensis bag is the result of a collaboration with Antwerp designer Jonas Van Put, combining precision of leatherworking with the sculptural approach of furniture design. Following the Oyster bag, this first edition of 30 numbered pieces introduces a new chapter in our Shell collection.

The wooden handle was inspired by the long, slender form of a razor clam, also known as Ensis. During his walks along the northern French coastline, Jonas often found these clams left behind in large numbers by the receding sea: "They make such a delightful sound when you walk over them, and they gently crack. The razor clam actually immediately inspired the idea of a handle: you can hold it, and the large ones fit well in your hand."

The bag is constructed by joining two leather halves that - like both parts of a shell - form a whole. The wooden element subtly pulls the ends together, creating an elegant fold in the leather.

The Ensis bag is part of our Shell Collection, which is an ongoing project where volume is created by folds and patterns, distinct from the traditional approach to bag design.

Jonas:"When I asked Lies if she would be open to a collaboration, she was already deep into her research on the Shell Collection. I remember a cork notice board filled with black-and-white scans of shells on old yellow paper. In addition, shells - snail shells and clams, exotic and local variations found along the Belgian coast - were scattered throughout the atelier. A beautiful starting point."

Lies: "Shells as an inspiration for designs came into my life by chance. While tidying up, I found the box in which I had kept my collection as a child. At that time, I was looking to take a step in another direction. After more architectural designs built around sleek fronts and backs, these beautiful, organic shells formed an interesting new starting point. Their shapes are more whimsical, more natural. They don't follow
the logic of symmetry, but one of growth, protection, and adaptation. Nature is a powerful designer; nothing happens without a reason."

We deliberately chose deadstock leather from French luxury houses, high-quality residual materials that are given a second life. Available in a soft Marine blue calf leather and a special edition in Crispy calf, a rare leather achieved by shrinking the hide to create a structured effect and suede-like matte finish. This rare leatherkind is used by only a handful of luxury houses.

The wooden handle is made from Belgian oak. Each design was filed by hand. After interpreting and prototyping the item various times, the most interesting example was scanned. The oak beams, sourced from a dusty joinery workshop, were shaved to size by Atelier Scheldeman. Based on a 3D scan, Brussels-based company Dare milled thirty rough pieces, which were carefully sanded and oiled in Jonas’ workshop in Antwerp.

The Ensis Bag is available as a first edition of 30 numbered pieces, ten in navy and
twenty in coffee. It can be carried by its handle or with a detachable strap, either crossbody or under the arm.