Piet Jonker Architectural Antiques More Furniture and Collectibles

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 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...

Unique table crucifix and a wonderful work of religious art. For us the most powerful statement will always be 'the truth will set you free'. It is what we have learned most from th...

This is a rare 1965 presentation award bust of JFK. A wonderful piece of mid-century historical decor from an important American sculptor, Robert Berks. Hi...

18th Century Italian Baroque Style Hand-Carved Tabernacle Frame. Frame featuring Madonna and Infant Christ, oil on panel, housed within polychrome frame with carved columns. These ta...

David Grossman's cast iron spikes brazened into a skyscraper form on foundry stone base. The Spikes are Sculpture is 3 x 3 x 12 in and the entire sculpture is 6.13 x 5.38 x 13.25 in.

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...

A gilded bronze alloy early 20th century Processional Cross. On the obverse a central Corpus Christi in raw bronze and arms extended wearing a loincloth. Hidden yet partially exposed...

909481 Alzer 80 80 cm x 26 cm 52.5 cm with removable tray Louis Vuitton suitcase, Alzer 80 with removable tray, in wonderful, well-kept condition with origin...

Antique Snooker table or Antique billiard table by Thurston London England. A very good quality 'Country House" mahogany Snooker table or bill...

Sailboat model on stand. Painted wood body and bronze accessories. Made between 1920s-1930s. Very nice restored conditions. Very decorative item, perfec...

Large Vintage Louis Vuitton leather suitcase. This beautiful piece of luggage features a round top handle and buckle fastenings. Cream colored inside fabric is in good condition and ...