DUPLEX Bird Cages

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...

Postmodern wood bookends. 1980s production in the Memphis Milano style. Retains the original 1984 label. USA

This midcentury style partition is defined by its striking angles and play on texture. The handmade room divider filters light while maintaining privacy and a separation of spaces. M...

Contemporary, handcrafted bookend model "Hybris" in oxidized brass with a curved contour. This bookend is part of the "Proetus Series", a collection of six bookends in brass. Variati...

Contemporary, handcrafted bookend model "Aether" in oxidized brass with a curved contour. This bookend is part of the "Proetus Series", a collection of six bookends in brass. Variati...

Art Deco bronze dog bookends by Alexandre Kelety Bronze with silver patina. Belgian Black marble bases France 1930. Signed A. Kelety with stamped ...

These charming French Art Deco bookends, dating from the 1920s, feature a noble combination of woods and brass, showcasing the elegant craftsmanship of the era. The cat and dog figur...

Vintage Louis Vuitton Monogram Dog Carrier Bag 40 Nice Condition Louis Vuitton Monogram Dog Carrier 40 Dimensions: 50 x 33 x 23 cm This Louis Vuitton Monogram Dog Carrier 40 is a st...

Contemporary, handcrafted fireplace screen model "Rimbaud" in solid oxidized brass with cutout geometric pattern. The screen is standing on a rectangular solid brass base. The interl...

Art Deco terrier dog bookends by Hippolyte Moreau. Art Metal with silver grey patina on black marble base. France 1930. Literature: Dictionnaire des ...

Art Deco style bookends cat and dog signed by Max Le Verrier. With foundry mark. Patinated Art Metal on Black marble base. Design 1930. Posthumous contemporary cast. CHAT ET DOGUE....

A beautiful white porcelain foo dog lion decorative object or bookend, circa early to mid-20th century, Japan. Foo dog lions, also known as komainu in Japan, are a symbol of good luc...