This can be a move pulled straight out of science fiction, but it has its roots set in the modern luxury world. We’re talking about the world’s first so-called ‘T. rex leather’ bag, which is all set to go under the hammer for a staggering amount. And we're not talking about thousands or lakhs, but the amount is up to Rs 5 crore.



A group of scientists collaborated with fashion designers and created this unique luxury piece, which has been made with materials that are worth being curious about. The T-Rex bag is crafted from the collagen derived from a Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil, which dates back sixty-six million years after the extinction of the great Tyrannosaurus rex.




This dinosaur species was known to be quite ferocious and one of the most popular apex predators to ever live. And, now after millions of years, it is reappearing, well, in an unexpected form. But the creation of this bag was made with the intention of understanding the value of laboratory-grown leather.

Let’s understand the creation process


The ancient protein fragments extracted from the T-Rex were inserted into an unidentified animal’s cell, where the collagen was produced, turning it into leather. Collagen is mainly the structural backbone of leather, which gives the body durability, strength, and flexibility. It forms a dense network of fibres that withstands the tension of the muscles and allows us to stretch and bend.




Now, during the process of making this leather, the tanning stabilises and cross-links the collagen and prevents it from breaking down when exposed to water and heat. As collagen is naturally resistant to decomposition and highly compatible with tanning agents, it is best for making the final leather feel soft and, at the same time, hold its shape.

This teal-hued bag is currently on a rock locked inside a cage under a replica of a T. rex at Amsterdam’s Art Zoo museum until May 11, after which it will be auctioned for more than half a million dollars, i.e., Rs 5 crore.