Poplar Trunks and Luggage

French, 20th century. A Louis Vuitton suitcase with a monogram canvas exterior, leather and brass-bound (all rivets and hardware are marked), opens to fitted interior with removable ...

We are delighted to offer for sale this lovely hand painted vintage steamer trunk with nautical decoration depicting the California Line to San F...

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...

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...

Set of two polished zinc cabin travel trunks / coffee tables by Mossman, England, 1930s They have gilt patinated iron locks, iron bindings and one has rubber handles, the other one ...

A handsome British Campaign teak blanket chest or trunk which could also be used as a coffee table. Brass straps on corners, bun feet and iron latches an...

A very charming 18th Century Coffre - Trunk from the Catalan region of Spain. Soundly constructed from naturally washed pine with dovetail construction and iron strapping. Wonderful patina. Perfect at the foot of a bed or under a picture window.

Louis Vuitton Boite Flacons Monogram vanity travel case - A vintage Louis Vuitton Beauty Case in monogram canvas with brass hardware and re...

A European storage chest from the 19th century. This antique trunk, with it's rectangular-shaped body, features it's original hand painted decorations about the top front sides in a ...

Rare 19th century Chinese pigskin trunk featuring a black lacquered finish. Beautiful distressed patina with a smooth soft finish. Brass-mounted ...

A George III design, mahogany four-step metamorphic library coffee table, with decorative gilt incised leather top and leathered steps opening to f...

A 19th Century steamer trunk that can be used as a coffee table, featuring original brass and copper hardware, with beautifully distressed leather in good condition. This piece is d...