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Place of Origin: European
20thC Louis Vuitton "Bell Air" Handbag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France c.1990
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A late 20th Century Louis Vuitton handbag crafted in monogram canvas with natural tan leather piping. Made in France around 1990, this Bel Air model features a leather handle and str...
Category
20th Century Other European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton LV Monogram 'Alzer' Suitcase, circa 1995
By Louis Vuitton
Located in London, GB
Louis Vuitton large ‘Alzer’ suitcase in LV monogram pattern coated canvas with edges trimmed in lozine and unpolished brass fittings. The lid of the case is secured by a central spru...
Category
1990s European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique Rare 20thC Louis Vuitton "Malle Fleurs" Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An extremely rare “malle fleurs“, or “flower trunk“ made by Louis Vuitton in the 1920s. These items are one of the rarest of trunks in circulation. Gaston Louis Vuitton had a company...
Category
20th Century Other European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Italian Antique Wood Bench with Back
Located in Alessandria, Piemonte
It's an old , nice and sturdy chest. It has a single internal space, but three doors to open it where needed. The backrest is also comfortable so as not to lean against the wall: Y...
Category
Late 19th Century Louis Philippe Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Fruitwood
20th Century Louis Vuitton Cow Hide Suitcase, France c.1920
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
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...
Category
20th Century Other European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
circa 1800 Extra Large Antique Original Paint German Blanket Chest Coffer Trunk
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
We are delighted to offer for sale this stunning, extra large circa 1800 hand painted German clothes trunk or marriage coffer chest with Acanthus leaf painting
I have recently purchased a very large collection of these original, antique painted wardrobes...
Category
Early 1800s George III Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Pine
Collection of Vintage Luggage, a Set of Four English Travel Cases
Located in London, GB
Collection of vintage luggage, a set of four English travel cases.
English, 20th Century
Green: height 18cm, width 67cm, depth 38cm.
Tan: height...
Category
20th Century Modern European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Pair of Zinc Steamer Trunks / Coffee Tables
Located in Barcelona, ES
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 ...
Category
20th Century Industrial European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Zinc, Metal, Iron
20th Century Louis Vuitton Suitcase In Monogram Canvas, France c.1970
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A delightful mid to late 20th-century Louis Vuitton hard-sided case, covered with the iconic monogram canvas and complemented by brass fittings. The exterior exudes the unmistakable ...
Category
1970s Other Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather, Canvas
Italian Renaissance Polychromed Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
Italian Renaissance style carved cassone floor trunk with polychromed and gold trim (17th Cent.)
Category
17th Century Renaissance Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wood
Vintage Crocodile Beauty Case, 1980s
Located in Roma, IT
Vintage crocodile beauty case
Excellent Vintage crocodile beauty case in cognac color, in very good condition.
Single handle in alligator with rimmed b...
Category
1980s Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather, Crocodile
Antique Leather Cricket Bag
Located in Barcelona, ES
Leather cricket kit bag, England, 1920s.
For decorative purposes or window dressings
Measures: 93 cm W x 26 cm D x 28 cm H (36,61 in W x 10,23 in D x 11,02 in H ).
Category
20th Century Art Deco European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Dutch 19th Century Solid Carved Oak Coffer
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
This Dutch solid oak paneled and carved coffer is from the 1800’s. The sturdy trunk opens on hand forged iron hinges to a wide open interior with a candle box in the top right. Clean...
Category
19th Century Other Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Oak
Vintage Leather Suitcase "La Bagagerie Paris" Burgundy Bordeaux Luggage
By Must De Cartier, Hermès
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Vintage leather suitcase "La Bagagerie Paris" burgundy bordeaux luggage.
Maroon leather travel bag with zip around and gold-tone hardware sui...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Unusual Swiss Oak Rustic Table with Hinged Doors, 17th-18th Century
Located in Atlanta, GA
Constructed entirely of a light oak, the table has a two board rectangular top above a conforming cabinet housing two hinged doors, the cabinet supported by trestle legs on elongated...
Category
Early 1700s Baroque Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Oak
Louis Vuitton Suitcase
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Louis Vuitton Suitcase in great vintage condition. France, 1940s.
Category
Mid-20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Mid Century French Riviera Wicker Bamboo and Rattan Trunk or Blanket Toy Chest
By McGuire
Located in Miami, FL
Mid century French Riviera trunk, blanket chest, toy chest, or large picnic basket. Rendered in hand woven wicker with bamboo bent rattan handles, feet, and ...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Bamboo, Wicker, Rattan, Wood
19th Century Italian Carved Cassone Trunk with Original Hardware, 1890s
Located in Miami, FL
Place this elegant antique coffer at the foot of a king size bed. Crafted in Italy, circa 1880, the rectangular trunk stands on bracket feet. Heavily carved on all three sides with a...
Category
Late 19th Century Baroque Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Walnut
Set of 8 Italian Florentine Gilt Wood Clothing Hangers
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
Charming set of vintage cream and gilt gold coat clothing hangers. We have seen these sold individually but to find a set of 8 is rare. As seen in the photos, this collection featur...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wood, Giltwood, Paint
18th Century Italian Cassapanca
Located in Atlanta, GA
A stunning mid-18th century Cassapanca from the Siena region of Italy. Wonderfully constructed from polychromed wood with gorgeous painting detail and color. Fabulous patina.
Category
Mid-18th Century Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wood
20th Century French Modern Leather Makeup/Vanity Wallet with Mirror by Hermès
By Hermès
Located in North Miami, FL
Mid-20th century Modern compact leather makeup/vanity wallet with mirror by Hermès Paris, France
By: Hermès Paris
Material: leather, mirror
Technique: embossed, polished
Dimensions: 1 in x 5.5 in x 7.5 in
Date: mid-20th century
Style: Mid-Century Modern, Space Age
Place of origin: France
Encased in fine reddish-brown leather, this mid-20th century Hermès vanity wallet is a sophisticated expression of modern design. The exterior features a subtly textured leather surface, accentuated by precise stitching and a geometric clasp adorned with a pale green panel. The closure mechanism, a structured leather strap looping through a matching leather slot, secures the case with refined simplicity.
Inside, the wallet reveals a well-organized layout lined in soft beige, hosting a built-in mirror, a series of compartments, and a translucent amber-hued comb. The craftsmanship is evident in the meticulous finishing of each section, balancing elegance with practicality. The Hermès stamp...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather, Mirror
Stunning circa 1900 Antique Original Paint Romanian Blanket Chest Coffer Trunk
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
We are delighted to offer for sale this stunning, circa 1900 hand painted Romanian clothes trunk or marriage coffer chest.
I have recently purchased a very large collection of these original, antique painted wardrobes...
Category
Early 1900s Late Victorian Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Pine
Italian Genuine Black Crocodile Train Beauty & Jewelry Case by Revlon, 1960s
By Revlon
Located in Miami, FL
Embrace elegance and style with this extremely rare, genuine black crocodile train case by Revlon. The mint condition beauty and jewelry case fea...
Category
20th Century Art Deco European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Large Gothic chest strongbox
Located in Vosselaar, BE
A verry rare and quite large Gothic chest in untouched condition. Strongbox like these where made for the safekeeping of money, important documents and pr...
Category
16th Century Gothic Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Gorgeous Vintage Italian Valigeria Principe Leather Suitcase, Travel Bag
Located in Bochum, NRW
Vintage soft leather travel bag from the luxury brand Valigeria PRINCIPE. The vertical line in the center is made of taupe velvet with the brand logo pattern, held by two leather han...
Category
1970s Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Louis Vuitton Trunk, Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, 62 cm Louis Vuitton Hat Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This beautiful and very rare Louis Vuitton trunk features hand painted stenciled monogram canvas, honey color lozine trim, large leather side handles, sta...
Category
Early 20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Suitcase In Natural Cow Hide, France c.1910
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
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...
Category
20th Century Other European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
English Brown Crocodile Valise
Located in Queens, NY
English dark brown crocodile valise with brass latches.
Category
20th Century British Colonial European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Selection of French Steamer Trunks Goyard and Romand Paris
By Paul Romand, Goyard
Located in Atlanta, GA
Selection of French Art Deco Steamer Trunks, France, circa 1930s. They are a versatile size and can be used as side tables or coffee tables. They are pric...
Category
1930s Art Deco Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal, Brass
Hermès Saddle Leather Shaving Case, 1950s France
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Handsome saddle leather case by French fashion house, Hermes. Made in the 1950s. H metal buckles flank each side of the case. Case opens up to reveal 'HERMES - MADE IN PARIS' on leather. Inside there is a large grouping of shaving/toiletry items. Leather folding mirror with tons of patina, that stands up on its own. Stamped 'Hermes' in gold. Leather folding pouch that can hold tweezers, scissors, a comb also stamped Hermes. Ebony brush stamped Hermes - Paris. Metal box with removable lid, stamped Hermes. Bottle with twist off cap, Stamped Hermes Compartment with leather lid, holds a razor, and a small tin...
Category
1950s Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Chrome
18th Century Spanish Iron-Clad Strong Box in Working Condition with Original Key
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Spanish strong box from the 18th century. This antique safe from is constructed or iron clad wood, and is handsomely adorn in domed iron nailhead trim throughout it's top, front, a...
Category
18th Century Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Industrial Design Dutch Harness Leather Tool Case from the 1930s
Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL
Rare Harness leather tool case from the 1930s with beautiful large sturdy brass buckles.
In very good condition and very decorative.
Also perfect t...
Category
1930s Industrial Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
circa 1900 Original Paint Romanian Blanket Chest Coffer Trunk Children Pictures
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
We are delighted to offer for sale this stunning, circa 1900 hand painted Romanian clothes trunk or marriage coffer chest depicting Children's portraits and floral paintings
I have recently purchased a very large collection of these original, antique painted wardrobes...
Category
Early 1900s High Victorian Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Pine
English Turn of the Century Leather Trunk with Brass Accents and Monogram, 1900s
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English Turn of the Century leather trunk from circa 1900 with brass accents, lateral handles and monogram. This English Turn of the Century leather trunk, dating back to circa 19...
Category
Early 20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
19th Century Rustic Pine Original Painted Flat Top Trunk
Located in Round Top, TX
The colorful paint is all original on this beautiful flat top trunk. Flowers were a traditional embellishment as seen on the front of this handcrafted trunk with red, orange, green, ...
Category
Late 19th Century Rustic Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Pine, Paint
1920's Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk in Stenciled Monogram , Vuitton Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Very nice Louis Vuitton hand stenciled monogram canvas featuring chocolate color leather trim and LV stamped solid brass locks and clasps, LV stamped studs as well as LV stamped soli...
Category
1920s Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Trunk Louis Vuitton Malle Cabine Tissé France XX secolo Paris 1870 circa
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Pambio Noranco, CH
Baule Louis Vuitton, elegante ed esclusivo, icona da viaggio della Maison. La sofisticata creazione, dal design compatto, era pensata per essere trasporto in carrozza, questo modello...
Category
Late 20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Petite Edwardian Leather Suitcase
Located in Chicago, IL
Petite but packed with character, history, and mystery, this early 20th-century English Edwardian leather suitcase is a rare find. Its unusually small size suggests it may have been a child’s trunk...
Category
Early 1900s Edwardian Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Early Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, C. 1910
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Charlottesville, VA
Early Louis Vuitton trunk, c. 1910, with LV insignia pattern having one interior tray, Monogram travel labels, Interior label, Rue Scribe Par...
Category
1910s Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wood
18th Century Oak Trunk or Coffer, Denmark
Located in Round Top, TX
It is the beautiful hand-carved details that make this oak trunk or "coffer" so impressive. Please examine detailed photos to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into the impressi...
Category
Late 18th Century Baroque Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Oak
Original Blue Painted Swedish Dome Top Trunk dated 1802
Located in Round Top, TX
Original painted dome top oak trunk from Sweden with traditional hand-painted details include floral and central house motif along top front.
The original blue painted finish has und...
Category
Early 19th Century Folk Art Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wrought Iron
English Chatham & Wilkes Faux Bois Steel Steamer Trunk J & E Bates Brass Latch
By Chatham & Wilkes, J & E Bates & Sons
Located in Cincinnati, OH
This Edwardian cold rolled annealed steel travel steamer trunk was made in Wolverhampton England by Chatham & Wilkes. The trunk has been decorated in a faux bois pattern with beauti...
Category
1910s Edwardian Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Steel, Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France, c.1900
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Gorgeous and most importantly complete, this early 20th century Louis Vuitton trunk was the must have item of any elite traveller. Covered in the world famous LV monogrammed canvas, ...
Category
20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Late 19th Century Italian Rustic Antique Trunk in Fir Wood
Located in Casale Monferrato, IT
We are delighted to present this rustic antique Italian trunk, dating back to the end of the 19th century. Crafted from solid fir wood, this trunk exudes a charming rustic appeal, characterized by its intense brown color that imparts a warm and inviting effect to any space.
The lid lifts effortlessly to reveal a spacious compartment, perfect for ample storage. A functional wooden rod keeps the lid open, providing easy access to your belongings. On the sides, two sturdy iron handles make it practical to lift and move the trunk as needed. While the lock is intact, please note that the key is missing. The trunk showcases traditional antique joints...
Category
Late 19th Century Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Fir
Galerie Maison & Jardin bamboo marquetry brass trunk 1970
By Galerie Maison et Jardin
Located in Paris, IDF
Beautiful Galerie Maison & Jardin trunk from the early 1970s. Natural bamboo as the chief material, the patterned marquetry creates a beautiful symmetry, with an organic aesthetic, w...
Category
1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Trunk in Woven Canvas, 75 cm Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Antique end of the 19th century genuine and superb Louis Vuitton "Malle Courrier" or steamer trunk, medium size, rare and sought after Tissé monogram canvas, black metal bound with b...
Category
Late 19th Century Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Steel
50cm Louis Vuitton Trunk, 1940s France
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Classic Louis Vuitton trunk from the 1940s. 50 cm wide. Perfect for weekend trips or for storing items in the house. Case has "Louis Vuitton, Made In France, 149620" impressed on fro...
Category
1940s Mid-Century Modern Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
1920s LOUIS VUITTON Orange Vuittonite Cabin Steamer Trunk w/ provenance
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Victoria, BC
A fabulous and rare 1920s LOUIS VUITTON Orange Vuittonite Cabin Steamer Trunk. It is made with the famous Vuittonite canvas with leather trim and handles. The orange canvas has “turn...
Category
1920s Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
ORIGINAL PAINT SiNGLE DRAWER STORAGE TRUNK OR CHEST IDEAL AS TOYS OR TV STAND
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this lovely original circa 1930's hand painted storage trunk or chest with full sized single drawer
Please ...
Category
1930s Edwardian Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Pine
20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk, France c.1930
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An exquisite and complete Louis Vuitton trunk from the early part of the 20th century. An absolutely essential item for elite travellers of its time the trunk is adorned in the iconic LV monogrammed canvas, accented by lozine trim and brass fittings. This trunk stood as the epitome of luxury over 100 years ago, boasting an unparalleled level of sophistication and elegance, it remains a timeless masterpiece that transcends eras.
The captivating allure of the Louis Vuitton trunk transforms it into more than a mere luggage accessory; it becomes a focal point for any room. With its impressive dimensions, it is perfectly suited as a striking coffee table, side table, or even as a standalone centrepiece, seamlessly integrating into any interior, whether modern or traditional. An extraordinary piece that not only pays homage to the past but also serves as a statement of unparalleled luxury in the present.
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...
Category
20th Century Other European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Victorian Nécessaire de Voyage
Located in New Orleans, LA
A work of extraordinary craftsmanship, this exquisite English vanity case is as much an item of luxury as it is of necessity. Known as a nécessaire de voyage...
Category
19th Century Victorian Antique European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Velvet, Glass, Wood
Louis Vuitton LV Monogram 'Bisten' Suitcase, circa 1990
By Louis Vuitton
Located in London, GB
Louis Vuitton large ‘Bisten’ suitcase in LV monogram pattern coated canvas with edges trimmed in lozine and polished brass fittings.
Securing the lid of the case is a central sprung...
Category
1990s European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Stunning and most importantly complete, this early 20th Century Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk was the must have item of any elite traveller. Covered in the world famous LV monogrammed...
Category
20th Century Other European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Goyard Trunk, 1940s France
By Goyard
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Classic vintage Goyard trunk. Wooden frame wrapped in the iconic Goyard canvas print with saddle leather and brass hardware. Incredible patina and colori...
Category
1940s Mid-Century Modern Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Large Antique chest covered with sculpted copper relief, Belgium ca. 1930
Located in Meulebeke, BE
Belgium / 1930 / chest / copper, wood / Antique / Baroque / Mid-century / Vintage
A beautiful large storage or treasure chest crafted in wood and covered in sculptured copper relief...
Category
1930s Baroque Vintage European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Copper
HERMES Hunting case C.1930s
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
A wonderful and rarely EVER SEEN HERMES saddle leather shotgun shell case, with all it's original travel label’s and name circa 1930’s.
Along the front edge center stamped "HERMES ...
Category
Early 20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Aluminum, Brass
French Pair of Parchment Suitcases Trunks, circa 1930
Located in Labrit, Landes
French vintage pair of suit cases, made of parchment and fabric, with label holder.
The address of the original owner is wrotten inside each suit case.
...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
1920s Belgian Leather Trunk
Located in High Point, NC
Step back in time with this exquisite 1920s Belgian Leather Trunk, a remarkable artifact that embodies the sophistication and craftsmanship of early 20th-century travel accessories. Handcrafted in Belgium, this trunk features rich, supple leather that has beautifully aged, showcasing a warm patina and character that only decades of history can impart. The trunk is adorned with original brass hardware, including sturdy locks and buckles, ensuring both security and an authentic vintage appeal. Its robust leather handle makes for easy transport, while the interior, lined with a soft, golden fabric, offers ample space for storing valuables, garments, or keepsakes. The interior pocket adds a touch of practicality, perfect for organizing smaller items. This 1920s Belgian Leather Trunk is not just a storage solution; it's a timeless piece of art that brings a sense of elegance and heritage to any setting. Ideal for collectors of vintage travel accessories...
Category
Early 20th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
