What makes something a true hallmark of a brand? Is it the logo that is engraved on hardware, or a name etched in gold? When these overt signifiers are removed, what remains of a design that still renders it unmistakably identifiable? Bottega Veneta seems to have the answer. Although woven crafts have long existed before the inception of the brand, there is an undeniable affiliation with Bottega Veneta today to the point that souvenir shop raffia totes and traditional ketupat wrappings often receive a jokey “Is that a Bottega?” Whether it was in all seriousness or jest, the Intrecciato, since it was first introduced by Bottega Veneta in 1975, has imbued the label with more than just a recognisable motif — it has served as a language that connects artisans with users through craftsmanship.
Hailing from Vicenza, of Italy’s Veneto region, the name Bottega Veneta translates into “Venetian artisanal workshop” — presenting itself as a collective of artisans, where craft takes precedence over persona. Guided by the Latin motto Labor et Ingenium, which is Latin for “craft and creativity”, the former principle becomes a vessel for the latter to be expressed, working hand in hand to champion the art of making. Beyond being just a visual cue that has earned the brand instant recognisability, the Intrecciato stands for commitment to excellence in craftsmanship, which becomes apparent upon interacting with it in person for the first time and over time.
Passed down through the tradition of Italian leather weaving, especially among the leatherwork expertise of Veneto, the woven effect is achieved by weaving slender leather fettuce (strips) into a perforated leather base. Visually, what makes the Intrecciato distinctive is how it is woven at a 45-degree angle, rather than the conventional, orthogonal pattern. This diamond lattice instils a dynamism in myriad designs, giving each expression a distinctive personality, rather than being presented as a one-trick pony. You see it across leather goods, ready-to-wear and even daily objects.
Having made its first big appearance in the 1980 film American Gigolo, after actress Lauren Hutton wore an Intrecciato clutch in the movie, designs crafted in this technique have remained a mainstay in the cultural zeitgeist. The Andiamo, which translates to “let’s go!”, as seen on the likes of Jacob Elordi and A$AP Rocky to Rowoon, I.N and Thanaerng, is the embodiment of ease expressed through fine craftsmanship and thrives in a casual, everyday setting. Albeit luxurious, the Intrecciato exudes a sensibility that invites you to use it daily, given its adjustable leather straps, divided compartments and touch of whimsy with the knotted hardware detail.
Alternatively, the Tosca and Cabat stand on different ends of the spectrum to further demonstrate the versatility of the Intrecciato. Seamless, stitch-free and sumptuous, the Tosca, which requires 145 metres of tubular leather strips and five days to craft, possesses a refined fullness that resembles serpent-like scales. By contrast, the Cabat stands as one of the most emblematic designs — starkly minimal, yet requiring impeccable craftsmanship to create. Its design features an evolved version of the Intrecciato technique, which involves handweaving double-sided instead of single-sided leather strips around a wooden mould. While designs may appear simplified, almost replicable to the casual eye, the intentional design choices and thoughtful craftsmanship that allow leather to mould to the body of the wearer make for a luxury that feels deeply intimate.
Bottega Veneta’s care for its craft does not just end once the bag leaves the store. The Andiamo, Sardine, Tosca and Cabat are accompanied by a Certificate of Craft, which offers complimentary care services to ensure the longevity of the piece. It is presented as a gold metal card inscribed with a unique QR code and serial number. The art of Intrecciato does not merely exist as a demonstration of aesthetics, but a sign of devotion towards crafting something immaculate. In a time when the culture of planned obsolescence reigns supreme, alongside our growing disconnection from meaningful interactions, perhaps what Bottega Veneta stands for creates an opportunity for contemplation — highlighting our need for something that lasts, and a genuine connection that brings us together.
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