Bottega Veneta has redefined the concept of luxury gaming with its official collaboration with Jenga, unveiling a limited-edition, handcrafted Jenga set that transforms the classic tower game into a high-end collectible. Priced at a staggering US$6,900 (approximately £4,610 or AU$10,600), this collaboration marks the first true luxury Jenga set developed in partnership with Hasbro, the game’s original creator. The set is not intended for children, but rather positioned as an indulgent, adults-only object that blends Bottega Veneta’s signature craftsmanship with the playful spirit of Jenga.
The Making of a Luxury Game
Bottega Veneta’s Jenga set is crafted from mixed Italian walnut wood, with each of the 54 blocks meticulously hand-finished and engraved with both the Bottega Veneta and Jenga logos. This dual branding is a subtle nod to the collaboration’s exclusivity and the merging of two iconic brands, one synonymous with Italian luxury, the other with global gaming culture.
The set’s most extravagant feature is its sculptural case, made from calfskin leather using Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato weaving technique. This intricate hand-weaving process, which has defined the brand’s identity for over 50 years, is typically reserved for its most coveted bags and accessories.
The case is available in a bold dark red hue, lined with matching calfskin leather, and serves as both a protective vessel and a statement piece in its own right. The intrecciato case is a testament to Bottega Veneta’s mastery of leatherwork, elevating the Jenga set from a mere game to a collectible design object.
A Collaboration for the Ages
The Bottega Veneta x Jenga partnership is a rare example of a luxury fashion house collaborating directly with a mass-market game brand. While other designers have attempted to create high-end versions of Jenga, such as Virgil Abloh’s Louis Vuitton resin kit and Hender Scheme’s leather blocks, Bottega Veneta’s set is the first to be officially licensed by Hasbro. This distinction adds to its allure, making it a coveted item for collectors and design enthusiasts alike.
The collaboration is part of Bottega Veneta’s broader strategy to push the boundaries of luxury beyond traditional fashion categories. In recent years, the Milan-based house has unveiled a series of unexpected partnerships, including a special edition of Gino Sarfatti’s Model 600 table lamp with Flos and glass stools designed by 6 AM. The Jenga set, however, stands out for its novelty and the sheer audacity of transforming a universally recognized game into a luxury object.
The Luxury Gaming Experience
The collaboration also taps into the growing trend of luxury gaming, where high-end brands are reimagining classic games as collectible objects. From Prada’s tic-tac-toe set to Gucci’s poker cards, luxury fashion houses are increasingly exploring the intersection of play and prestige. Bottega Veneta’s Jenga set is a standout example of this trend, offering a playful yet sophisticated take on a beloved game.
A Statement of Exclusivity
The set’s limited availability and high price point ensure that it will remain a rare and coveted item, appealing to collectors and design aficionados who appreciate the fusion of luxury and play. The collaboration also highlights Bottega Veneta’s ability to innovate and surprise, pushing the boundaries of what luxury can be in the modern era.
It’s a reminder that even the simplest games can be transformed into objects of desire when crafted with the highest level of artistry and attention to detail.
