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Trunks and Luggage For Sale
1860 ITALIAN ORIGINAL PAINT EXTRA LARGE STORAGE TRUNK OR CHEST CHERUB PAINTINGs
Located in GB
Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this lovely original circa 1860's Italian hand painted storage trunk or chest depicting Cherubs Please not...
Category

1860s Italian High Victorian Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

Vintage 20th Century Wood & Metal Rustic Storage Trunk Accent Table
Located in Charlotte, NC
A Rustic style decorative storage trunk on legs or accent table, unbranded. Solid hardwood, lift up lid is on a hinge, bevel edge to the top, decorative metal accents, metal top & si...
Category

20th Century American Rustic Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Metal

Vintage Crest Brown Leather Doctors Bag Carry on Luggage Suitcase
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Crest Brown Leather Doctors Bag Carry on Luggage Suitcase. Circa Mid 20th Century. Measurements: 11" H x 18" W x 10" D
Category

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Antique Korean Coin Chest
Located in Boynton Beach, FL
Charming antique coin box. From the Joseon Dynasty period. Chest is made from hardwood with dovetail joinery. Has heavy patina and shows it’s age ve...
Category

19th Century Korean Chinese Export Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Swiss alp pine trunk
Located in grand Lancy, CH
Swiss alp pine trunk
Category

Early 19th Century Swiss Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Pine

Moynat Trunk, Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Hat Trunk, Moynat Luggage
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This beautiful and very rare Moynat trunk features beautiful checkers canvas, chocolate color leather trim, large leather side handles with stamped Moynat flanges and solid brass sta...
Category

Early 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Rare Large Colonial British Raj All Leather Military Campaign Chest Stamped
Located in Vancouver, British Columbia
Remnant of the Raj. This all leather British India Military Campaign Chest is a very rare survivor. Stamped "The Western India Army Boot & Equipment Factory, Solid Leather Guaranteed...
Category

1880s British Indian Ocean Territory Campaign Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather, Fruitwood

Mid Century Art Deco Hard Case Leather Attache Briefcase after Bally, Hermes
Located in New York, NY
Exceptional, well crafted vintage hard leather briefcase, attache case in very fine, original, clean and ready to use condition. The case features a fitted interior with saddle bag s...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Rattan trunk, Italy 1980
Located in Roma, RM
Rattan trunk. Italian production, 1980 Dimensions: 80 L x 48 H x 45 D cm
Category

1980s Italian Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Rattan

Vintage French Wicker Basket, Gold Color Stitched Leather Bag Handles France
Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR
This bag is is wicker, rattan, with Stitched leather bag handles. the color is gold, with an old Patina. This has been made in France circa 1970.   
Category

1970s French Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Vintage Leather Suitcase with Original Stickers, 1950s
Located in Żory, PL
This leather travel suitcase was produced in the Czech Republic in the 1950s. The suitcase is in very good condition with numerous original stickers, mainly from tourist places in C...
Category

Mid-20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Antique decorative small Zanzibar brass and copper mounted chest or strongbox
Located in Central England, GB
This remarkable and small beautifully proportioned Zanzibar chest is a highly decorative piece made from a mixture of teak and other various woods. This sturdy little chest or stron...
Category

Early 20th Century Zanzibari Early Victorian Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Copper

1920s Continental Wooden Chest With Wooden Rollers
Located in Pasadena, CA
1920s Continental Wooden Chest With Wooden Rollers. Beautiful design with figural carvings on the exterior of the trunk. Iron fitting and hinges provide a strong connection and decor...
Category

1920s Ethiopian Adirondack Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Iron

Pair Of Vintage Officer's Luggage Cases, English, Leather, Bedside Nightstand
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage officer's luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bound bedroom nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980.   Quality casework, with beaut...
Category

Late 20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Moynat Trunk, Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Hat Trunk, Moynat Luggage
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This beautiful and very rare Moynat trunk features beautiful checkers canvas, chocolate color leather trim, large leather top handle with stamped Moynat f...
Category

Early 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Moynat Shoe Trunk, Moynat Trunk, 77 cm Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Checkers
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This magnificent Moynat shoe trunk features checkers canvas, top quality Moynat stamped solid brass locks, brass studs and leather side handles. Its handles' flanges are engraved Moy...
Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Vintage Louis Vuitton Luggage/Duffle Bag , c. 1980's
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage Louis Vuitton monogram luggage bag. The exterior of the bag is adorned with the renowned LV monogram pattern and vachetta leather deta...
Category

1980s French Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Large French Pirate Corsair's Chest - Safe - Louis XIV Period - France XVIIth
Located in Beuzevillette, FR
Exceptional and extremely rare privateer/pirate chest in solid oak. The wood is richly carved with rosettes. The bottom of the trunk is pierced with holes...
Category

17th Century French Louis XIV Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wrought Iron

19th Century French Wooden Chest
Located in High Point, NC
This 19th Century French Wooden Chest is a treasure trove of antiquity, offering a storied piece to store your cherished belongings. ...
Category

19th Century French Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

HERMES Paris - Rare Tan Barenia Calfskin Convoyeur Bag. Limited Edition
Located in Encino, CA
HERMES Paris, very rare Tan Barenia Calfskin Convoyeur Bag. Limited Edition This exquisite bag, stamped “Hermès Paris Made in France” and numbered, carries the blind stamp ‘R’ indica...
Category

2010s Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

English Victorian 19th Century Leather Travel Trunk with Brass Hardware
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English Victorian period brown leather trunk from the 19th century with brass accents and lateral handles. This 19th-century English Victorian brown leather trunk embodies the ele...
Category

19th Century English Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

English Turn of the Century Leather Trunk with Brass Accents and Monogram, 1900s
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English Turn of the Century leather trunk from circa 1900 with brass accents, lateral handles and monogram. This English Turn of the Century leather trunk, dating back to circa 19...
Category

Early 20th Century English Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Tan Leather Case, circa 1910
Located in London, GB
An excellent sturdy tan leather case with solid brass catch and original leather lining with pockets and sleeves to accommodate fittings (now missing). The fittings that remain are t...
Category

1910s British Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Pair Early 20th C English Regimental Leather Covered Trunks
Located in Troy, MI
Circa 1920s pair of leather and brass covered trunks found in England. Both trunks have been fully restored with patched leather, new blue velour fabric interior, polished brass hard...
Category

Early 20th Century English Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

World War 2 Era Military Trunk, c.1940
Located in San Francisco, CA
About A World War 2 era Army military trunk with original stenciled graphics on top, label and hinged lid. Army green with black and brick red stencil. ...
Category

Early 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Aluminum

Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk , Louis Vuitton Trunk, Vuitton Steamer Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This impressive Louis Vuitton wardrobe features monogramm canvas, lozine trim, LV stamped solid brass locks and studs as well as solid brass corners. It has got a lift top that close...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Rare Vintage HERMES Leather Suitcase
Located in Victoria, BC
Here is a beautiful and Rare Vintage Hermes Leather Suitcase. This handsome piece of luggage is in overall good condition for its age with wear...
Category

1930s French Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

High Relief Carved Camphor Wood Trunk
Located in Fulton, CA
Highly carved camphor wood trunk / hope or blanket chest. Trees, figures and sail boat motif. Very nice original condition and finish. Brass ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Chinese Chinese Export Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

Vintage LOUIS VUITTON MARMOTTE Sample Box
Located in Victoria, BC
Here is a wonderful Vintage LOUIS VUITTON MARMOTTE Sample Box. Made from composite material and reinforced with studded leather, this box was used to store samples in order to be abl...
Category

1930s French Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Composition

1960s Czech Metal Trunk
Located in High Point, NC
This 1960s Czech Metal Trunk is a true testament to the era's craftsmanship and utilitarian design. The trunk's robust metal construction speaks of durabil...
Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Metal

Pair Of Vintage Officer's Campaign Luggage Cases, English, Leather, Nightstands
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage officer's campaign luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bedside nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980. Exquisite casework, with b...
Category

Late 20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Pair Of Vintage Campaign Luggage Cases, English, Leather, Bedroom Nightstands
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage campaign luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bedside nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980.   Superb casework, with beautifully a...
Category

Late 20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Mexican colonial trunk with wood inlaid and hand carved
Located in Guadalajara, Jalisco, MX
It is a very beautiful trunk from the Mexican colonial style, made in detail by hand. In person you can see in detail the different figures that give ...
Category

Late 18th Century Mexican American Colonial Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

Large Antique Steamer Trunk, American, Leather, Brass, Shipping Chest, Edwardian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a large antique steamer trunk. An American, leather and brass bound shipping chest, dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. Fi...
Category

Early 20th Century American Edwardian Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

19th Century Large Antique Leather Traveling Luggage with Brass Accents
Located in Wichita, KS
This beautiful 19th Century large scale Antique leather traveling bag or luggage is truly a special piece. The bag opens and all of the bra...
Category

19th Century Empire Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer Bag In Epi Leather Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A large Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag in black Epi leather, made in France in the latter quarter of the 20th century. Steamer bags have been produced by Louis Vuitton for over 120...
Category

20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Vintage Rustic Wooden Decorative Storage Trunk.
Located in Seattle, WA
Primitive Storage Trunk with Original Metal Hardware and Patina. Sturdy Construction. No Maker’s Mark. Vintage Condition Consistent with Age as Pictured. Dimensions. 29 W ; 8 D ; 9 H
Category

1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

Early 18th Century Large Marriage Oak Trunk With a Vaulted Lid and Carvings
Located in London, GB
This 1727 oak trunk is of magnificent craftsmanship, showcasing intricate carvings and exquisite attention to detail. Crafted from solid oak, the trunk is sturdy and substantial, ref...
Category

1770s German Baroque Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Oak

An Edwardian Dressing Case With Silver Accessories By Walker & Hall c.1928
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An English bridle hide dressing case with gilded silver accessories marked with the Walker and Hall stamp and a delicate engine turned pattern, including brushes, jars, mirror and do...
Category

1920s British Other Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

1940's Hartmann Traveling Trunk w/ Original Key
Located in San Francisco, CA
1940's Hartmann traveling trunk w/original key 25 x 21.5 x 39.5
Category

Early 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Antique 19thC English Leather Overnight Case With Six Silver Topped Jars c.1881
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique 19th Century English bridle leather overnight case, containing six different shaped glass vanity jars topped with solid silver lids, dating to 1881. Inside the case there als...
Category

1880s British Other Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

1800s German Bleached Oak Trunk
Located in High Point, NC
Ample and solid, this unique trunk was built out of oak in Germany circa 1800. The facade boasts four ornate panels hand-carved in the shape of classic arches, which are enlivened wi...
Category

19th Century German Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Oak

20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A 20th Century Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag, crafted from monogram canvas and natural tan leather, serves as a quintessential representation of the brand's unwavering commitment to a design seamlessly harmonising style and utility. Inspired by the practical proportions of mailbags from the Americas, these bags effortlessly combine chic aesthetics with practical functionality—whether hung on a cabin door, displayed on a deck, or utilised for a spontaneous weekend getaway. The monogram canvas, adorned with iconic LV initials and floral motifs, stands out not only for its recognisability but also for its exceptional durability. Teamed with natural tan leather, this pairing gracefully matures, developing a lavish patina over time that enhances the bag's inherent character. The enduring design underscores Louis Vuitton's timeless allure, elevating these pieces to coveted collector's items that encapsulate the brand's storied history and commitment to impeccable craftsmanship. 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 industrialisation 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...
Category

20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

1 OF 1 HERMES PARIS JOHN LOBB EXTRA LARGE SHOE TRUNK HAND DYED LEATHER PANELs
By Hermès, John Lobb
Located in GB
Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely stunning, 1 of 1, Hermes Paris made for John Lobb shoe trunk and care kit with all the origi...
Category

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather, Beech

Crocodile Alligator Leather Hornback Suitcase Storage Case
Located in Cheltenham, GB
Antique suitcase made of crocodile leather featuring prominent hornback scales hand stitched with fine leather lacing, an attractive antique reptile s...
Category

Mid-20th Century British Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Crocodile, Leather

Antique 19th Century Camphorwood Russian Sea Captain's Military Campaign Chest
Located in Charlotte, NC
A 19th Century Campaign style sea captain's military trunk, unbranded. Solid camphorwood, brass accents to protect corners & sides, brass side handles, distinctive side joinery, work...
Category

19th Century Russian Campaign Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Museum Quality 18th Century Coffer with Provenance
Located in Hopewell, NJ
We found this historical and beautiful oak coffer from the 18th century outside Paris. Inside the top is its provenance, written on the stationary of Leon Guerin, Notary, Neufchatel...
Category

18th Century French Elizabethan Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Oak

Antique 20th Century Vellum Overnight Case By Royal Doulton c.1920
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
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...
Category

20th Century British Other Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Silk

20th Century Louis Vuitton Suitcase In Natural Cow Hide, France c.1910
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
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 utilising 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...
Category

20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Motoring Picnic Case, circa 1910
Located in London, GB
Impressive six person motoring picnic case; circa 1910. The collection comprises six enamelled tin plates, six ceramic cups with matching saucers and...
Category

1910s European Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Metal, Brass

Antique, Large and Stunning Embossed Brass on Wood, Decorative Firewood Bucket
Located in Lisse, NL
All handcrafted and rare, brass firewood bucket with an important saying. For the collectors of quality hand-crafted and useful antiques with a ...
Category

Late 19th Century Belgian Victorian Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Large Goyard Steamer Trunk, circa 1910
Located in London, GB
Large steamer trunk by Goyard in their signature 'Goyardine' chevron pattern canvas covering with polished brass lock, catches & handles; circa 191...
Category

1910s French Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Vintage Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Monogrammed Coated Canvas, Large-Sized
Located in San Francisco, CA
Vintage classic Louis Vuitton soft side suitcase with leather trims, zipper closure and wheels for easy transport. Open interior for you to pack as you like. Large-sized.
Category

Late 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Cow Hide Suitcase, France c.1920
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
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...
Category

20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Louis Vuitton Trunk, Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Alzer 80
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This piece of luggage is a magnificent Louis Vuitton Alzer monogramm suitcase. This 80 cm suitcase is the largest and the most luxury one made by Louis Vuitton. It features all Louis...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Cow Hide Suitcase, France c.1920
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
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...
Category

20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Vintage Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Monogrammed Coated Canvas, Small-Sized
Located in San Francisco, CA
Vintage classic Louis Vuitton soft side suitcase with leather trims, zipper closure and wheels for easy transport. Open interior for you to pack as you like. Small-sized.
Category

Late 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

19th Century Chinese Trunk with Red and Gold Lacquer
Located in Dallas, TX
A 19th century Chinese red lacquered trunk with gilt decoration depicting a court scene with mountains and foliage. This highly decorative trunk is very functional and could be used...
Category

Late 19th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Antique Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Bronze

Antique and Vintage Trunks and Luggage

Add a charming piece of travel history to your space. Antique and vintage trunks and luggage can make a statement as decorative accents and practical furnishings in nearly every room of your home.

There have been many types of trunks and luggage over the years, with availability of these wares broadening as train travel expanded during the 19th century. Antique steamer trunks — named for their use on steamships — mostly date from around 1880 to 1920. These pieces of luggage fit a steamship’s luggage size regulations and essentially doubled as wardrobes, ensuring that a traveler’s evening dresses and suits were kept wrinkle-free on a journey from city to city.

In 1858, French luxury brand Louis Vuitton introduced the world to the now-iconic Louis Vuitton trunks. During this early period of railroad travel, Louis Vuitton trunks solved common travel problems. Instead of the traditional round shape, these handcrafted rectangular trunks stored better on trains. To discourage burglars, the French craftsman and his son, Georges, also eventually patented a revolutionary sophisticated lock for the trunks. The famous LV monogram was first used in 1896 as part of an initiative by Georges to prevent counterfeiting of his coveted travel trunks.

Even if no longer used for travel, the vintage luggage is a popular item among collectors for its historical value and charm. At home, an old wood trunk is a durable storage solution as much as it is a versatile surface. It’s a coffee table in the living room of your farmhouse-style home or rustic loft apartment and a nightstand or blanket chest at the foot of your bed in your bedroom.

From Victorian trunks to Art Deco traveling jewelry cases, journey through history today with an extensive collection of antique trunk suitcases and vintage luggage on 1stDibs.

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