French Ladders

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...

Use this vintage fruitwood spiral staircase to organize books in your office or library. Created in France circa 1970, the small circular step ladder sits on four small turned feet a...

20th century English leather library step or stairs / stepladder, Victorian Solid wood mahogany stained. English library manager / stepladder 20...

Mahogany library steps with embossed leather tops on three levels. top step has a door for storage and second step top lifts for additional storage.

On offer here is a beautiful Italian turned painted walnut wood circular step ladder. The staircase offers four stairs, each with a gold leaf decorated inlay of cognac-coloured shee...

A rare George III English mahogany metamorphic library step ladder from the 19th century that converts into a bench (also ideal for use as a side table, cocktail table). Having red i...

Beautiful Italian carved walnut wood tall circular step ladder with four stairs rolled around a turned, central post embellished with a decorative finial. Each step is upholstered with red leather and golden classic frame. Versatile and practical, the elegant library essential is in excellent condition with a rich walnut patina. Use this vintage staircase...

A mesmerizing, Spanish 19th century tooled leather folding screen–over six feet tall–embossed with floral & foliate motifs that cover the surface to expansive effect. The four connec...

1920s English country oak folding step ladder. A wonderfully practical and charming handcrafted ladder with steps that fold to a space saving size when not in use. It has a nicely sh...

Beautiful Italian carved walnut wood step ladder with four stairs and nicely carved details and decorated structure. Each step is upholstered with re...

Very nice library ladder with brass top handle. Rare and fun. Very cool.

Created in Austria around 1920s and standing strong and very sturdy, this is a real beauty in every House. Versatile and practical, the elegant essential is in very good used conditi...