Cape Cobra Leathercraft is a third-generation, women-led family business dedicated to crafting luxury handbags and accessories from sustainably sourced specialty leathers. Founded in 1972, we are Africa’s longest-standing luxury leather goods atelier, a true pioneer in the art of fine leathercraft. Cape Cobra has over the years produced for top international brands such as Tiffany & Co, Michael Kors Collection, Judith Leiber and many more.
Our name is inspired by the Cape Cobra, a symbol of the natural beauty and rich heritage of South Africa, the place we proudly call home. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted in our atelier in Woodstock, Cape Town, where Creative Director Justine Schäfer continues her family’s legacy. Together with a team of 65 artisans, Justine leads with passion, combining timeless tradition and contemporary elegance to create leather goods that are as unique as those who carry them.
At Cape Cobra, true luxury lies in craftsmanship, community, and sustainability. From the ethical sourcing of Nile crocodile and ostrich leathers to the intricate details in every stitch, our creations are made to endure – heirloom pieces that transcend trends and celebrate Africa’s artisan heritage.
The history
The story began with Lothar Schäfer, a master of maroquinerie who honed his skills in 1950s Germany before bringing classical European leathercraft to Cape Town alongside his wife, Denise. From their home workshop, they created their first handbags, blending European techniques with the spirit of Africa.
Today, their granddaughter Justine leads the brand alongside her father, Robert Schäfer, a master artisan with over 40 years of experience. Together, they have built an integrated leather value chain in South Africa, ensuring that every stage, from raw sourcing to final creation, happens locally. This commitment strengthens our economy, preserves skills, and keeps our environmental footprint as light as possible.
A commitment to ethical luxury
As proud members of Exotic Leather South Africa (ELSA) and strict adherents to CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), we ensure every leather is responsibly farmed and sourced. Our practices not only protect biodiversity but also champion ethical trade.
“We’re not trying to prove that sustainable luxury is possible – we are proof that it is,” says Justine Schäfer, Creative Director
We prioritise responsibly farmed exotic leathers, like ostrich (a byproduct of the meat industry that requires far less water than bovine leather), and we explore innovative materials that reduce environmental impact.
Every piece of leather is valued. Our artisans thoughtfully allocate each piece of leather to minimise waste while maximising beauty and functionality.
Our values are the pillars guiding us as we endeavour to continue our legacy of excellence, craftsmanship, and sustainability, offering luxury with purpose that transcends time and trends.
- Family – We foster a spirit of unity, integrity, and care in all that we do.
- Honesty – Transparency and ethical responsibility are at our core.
- Craftsmanship & Quality – Each creation is a masterpiece, reflecting unparalleled skill and attention to detail.
- Innovation – We merge tradition with modernity to create enduring designs.
- Sustainability – We champion responsible sourcing, local beneficiation, and eco-conscious practices.
- Tradition – Our work preserves artisanal knowledge passed down through generations.
- Empowerment – We invest in people, nurturing talent and creating opportunities that uplift
