Carol Master Antiques 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 ...

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...

American made suitcase manufactured by Hulbert Bros. They were in business from 1870-1909 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Free shipping within the United Stat...

Mid-20th century, dark crocodile hide exterior, satin interior and custom fitted canvas cover. Individual characteristics are as follows: Suitcase has w...

This 19th-century English leather suitcase is a charming relic of refined travel in a bygone era. Crafted from supple leather, its surface shows wear and patina that highlight its ag...

Chic vintage overnight suitcase in very fine, original condition, attributed to high end maker, Crouch & Fitzgerald. Exception craftsmanship...

A lovely pair of Art Deco bookends with spelter figurines of a cat and dog with glass eyes. On a Porte Nero marble plint. Made in France, 1920-1930. The set is in good condition. Di...

A 1930's vintage USA hard shell suitcase in cream canvas with red stripes, leather and brass trim and hardware. The interior with a label reading Sioux by Oshkosh Luggage - None Finer 'Round the World. The exterior has a metal label reading Oshkosh Luggage and has the initials M.L.H under the handle. The bold and signature stripes on the "Chief" luggage line by Oshkosh sets it apart from the crowd. Made by the Oshkosh Luggage of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the Chief Oshkosh...

Chic leather valise, handbag, suitcase in good, original condition. The bag has two leather grip handles, and a leather closure strap with locking mechanism. The lock is not locked, ...

Pair of Mid Century Modern Dog Book Ends on Onyx Bases. We see this set added to a current collection or resting on a bookshelf in a home library. Wonderful set to give a gift or kee...

Early Victorian Library Steps on Turned Legs A great set of Early Victorian Library steps This set of steps is in good condition, the top ste...

Vintage brown caramel leather hard case 18" suitcase luggage with Patina. Item features wonderful authentic patina, quality leather, brass hardware, satin lines interior, no key, but...