20th Century American Leather Briefcase by Hartmann, circa 1920

Antique early 20th Century Bridle Hide Revelation expanding leather suitcase, a hallmark of innovation from the 1920's, showcased a pioneering design that allowed for adjustable stor...

A wonderful 20th Century Hermès briefcase. It is crafted from luxurious black leather and comes with a comfortable leather handle. It is secured by two gold-plated solid brass latche...

Antique 20th Century beautifully painted four panel dress screen depicting 17th Century battleships at sea. Painted oil on leather, each panel is finished...

A charming Louis Vuitton hard-sided case, late 20th century, the exterior finished in the famous monogram canvas with brass fittings. This beautiful example is in fantastic condition...

Antique 20th-century English suitcase crafted from luxurious vellum, accompanied by a compact interior vanity case, offers versatility for both joint and individual use. Adorned with...

A highly unusual and exceptionally rare Louis Vuitton suitcase, originating from the early years of the 20th century, distinguishes itself not with the globally renowned monogram canvas but with a distinctive covering crafted from a singular piece of cowhide. This unique piece represents a special order from Louis Vuitton, showcasing the brand's historical commitment to utilizing only the finest hides available. Unlike many of its counterparts, leather trunks and cases of this era often struggle to withstand the test of time, requiring regular treatments to prevent drying and disintegration. Remarkably, this particular example defies the odds, retaining the same supple quality it possessed on the day it first graced the shop floor. This suitcase belongs to Louis Vuitton's collection of "speciality materials," which encompasses a diverse range, including, but not limited to, zinc, copper, crocodile leather, and cow leather. A brief history about Louis Vuitton trunks: Louis Vuitton was born in 1821 to a farmer and milliner and came from a long-established working-class family in eastern France. Vuitton grew up understanding the effects of perseverance and a strong work ethic from watching his family. At the age of 16, he made the decision to walk 292 miles from his hometown to Paris to try and make a new life for himself. When he arrived the city was in the midst of industrialization with current modes of transportation evolving quickly allowing for longer journeys. With this came the need for sturdy travel pieces. Vuitton was taken as an apprentice for a successful box maker and packer named Monsieur Marechal. He learned to craft durable containers and how to pack them properly – a well-respected profession at the time.In 1854, years after he had mastered his craft and became well respected for it, Vuitton ventured out on his own to open a shop on Rue Neuve des Capucines. It was here that he began to establish himself as a luggage maker. Then, in 1858, Vuitton designed the first Louis Vuitton steamer trunk. At the time trunks had rounded tops to allow for water to run off but this did not allow for convenient stowage. Vuitton introduced a flat, yet waterproof, trunk that was easily stackable. The first of his trunks were outfitted with a grey canvas referred to as Trianon – it wouldn’t be until several decades later that the signature monogram would be introduced. With a burgeoning business, Vuitton moved his family and workplace to Asniere, where he employed twenty workers to craft his trunks. By 1900 he would have 100 employees, and in 1914 the company would more than double in size. After years of success, Vuitton began to experiment with the design of his luggage by introducing a new striped canvas pattern (1876) and later the still well-known Damier print (1888). The hand-painted patterns were developed to prevent counterfeits. Even in the late 1800s, Louis Vuitton was enough of a status symbol to warrant counterfeiting. In 1886, his son George invented and patented an ingenious locking system that made it impossible to pick the lock of their trunks. This lock is still used today. 1892 would prove to be a time of mourning for the family as Louis Vuitton passed...

A French Industrial étagère with nickel mounted frame and shelves made of Eastern European oak. Very sturdy, heavy frame and decorative cast feet. The shelves are adjustable. In ve...

Mahogany and mahogany veneer window opening with two doors with three glass panels and brass hoops, the uprights with half columns. England, 20th century. Measures: High 178 cm...

We are delighted to offer for sale this absolutely exquisite circa 1810 George III elm & green leather library steps What a thing of beauty, nothing screams Georgian decadence li...

Rare Pathfinder Imperial wardrobe luggage case on revolving base, made by Hartmann for Saks Fifth Avenue . The interior has a bank of drawers on one side, and accordion style pul...

Small French bookcase from the early 20th century. Double-body inlaid furniture in rosewood, mahogany, maple, walnut and fruitwood. Sideboard with four doors, two of which are inlaid...

Exquisite & rare! This 19th century black forest books rack/ book shelf with ''Bears holding baby bears'' bookends hand carved Swiss. Gorgeous 19th century antique Black Forest bookstand...