Our Heritage

At the foot of the Pyrenees, on the banks of the gave in the authentic town of Oloron-Sainte-Marie, the Bascans Manufacture finds its roots in 1830. Alexis Bascans opens an espadrille workshop that will continue to grow. In 1910, the family continues to develop in Oloron-Sainte-Marie. This is also the year of the creation of "Tissages Lartigue". A fusion between the Bascans and Lartigue families occurs when Jeanne Bascans marries Paul Lartigue.

The Lartigue Weaving, still in operation, is run by Philippe Lartigue, Gratianne's first cousin. To continue the beautiful adventure of their ancestors, Philippe and Gratianne continue to work together. Under its new name "Lartigue 1910", the company weaves all the fabrics that go into the making of GB bags, including the red and silver bayadère inner lining in the colors of the Bascans Coat of Arms, a recognizable signature of the brand.

The coated cotton and linen canvas is printed by a company that has obtained the prestigious "Living Heritage Company" label. The printing is done in three colors using the Lyonnaise table printing technique. This technique allows for complex designs. In the Bascans world, you will discover exclusivity and a finish where detail becomes identity.

From the 18th century, the textile industry occupied an important place in the history of the Basque Country, this region of southwestern France rich in tradition, colors and a source of inspiration for many artists. The espadrille was booming and would become a fashion accessory thanks to the "haute bourgeoisie". It seems that Napoleon III never parted with his pair of blue canvas espadrilles during his stays on the Basque Coast. One of the sovereign's shoes was displayed in the window of the Bismarck lounge at the Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz. Empress Eugénie, arbiter of elegance, is also said to have worn the famous sandal.

A brand that wants above all to be synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. Each material that goes into an item is selected for its qualities, nobility and beauty. Production is necessarily limited because it remains unique and traditional, this is our will. Owning a BASCANS model means being attached to the luxury and heritage left by our ancestors. It is the will to be part of an elite that connects with the work of the artisan and appreciates its perfection as a form of Art.

It is also loving a region made of mountains and valleys bordered by the Ocean and deeply feeling the vigor of nature, the strength of the elements and the beauty of a breathtaking wild landscape.