Yves Saint Laurent by Tom Ford F/W 2002 Mombasa Horn Handle Bag — Cognac Brown

The Archive

From Tom Ford’s tenure at Yves Saint Laurent, the Mombasa combines a relaxed crescent silhouette with a sculptural horn handle. This Fall/Winter 2002 version pairs warm cognac leather with a mottled cream-and-brown handle, accented by silver-tone metalwork.

Shaped leather panels create a softly curved body, while darker leather trim follows the perimeter. Looped leather attachments connect the bag to its distinctive handle, giving the construction a balance of supple surfaces and rigid, organic form.

The Details

Designer: Yves Saint Laurent by Tom Ford
Style: Mombasa Horn Handle Shoulder Bag
Era/Year: Fall/Winter 2002
Color: Cognac Brown
Material: Leather with Horn Handle
Hardware: Silver-Tone
Closure: Magnetic Snap
Height: 9.5"
Length: 14.5"
Depth: 1.5"
Strap Drop: 7.5"
Authentication: Entrupy Verified

Condition Report 7.8/10

The cognac leather shows creasing, scattered scratches, scuffs and variations in tone across the body. Lighter surface marks appear along the lower panels, with rubbing around the perimeter, base and opening. Side leather straps have been repaired, edge paint redone.

The leather handle attachments show pronounced rubbing and finish wear, including lighter exposed areas, worn edges and loose surface fibers around the folded loops. The surrounding leather keepers also show scuffing.

The horn handle displays tonal variation and surface marks, with darker discoloration near the ends. The silver-tone rings and handle plate show scratches, tarnishing and speckled darkening. The body retains its crescent shape with a softened, relaxed profile.

Curator’s Perspective

The Mombasa’s appeal rests in its distinctive handle and the way the leather falls beneath it. The cognac color emphasizes the bag’s panel construction and gives the sculptural design an approachable warmth.

I would pair it with a cream knit, dark flared denim and boots, or a simple brown dress. Its slim depth and curved shape make it an expressive shoulder bag without an oversized profile.