1960s Trunks and Luggage

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...

This vintage ornately embroidered and decorated clutch styled evening handbag was made in India in approximately 1940 in the period Anglo-Indian style. The outer shell of the purse i...

Born in Nebraska, Don S. Shoemaker studied painting at The Fine Arts Institution of Chicago. In the late 1940s, he moved to Mexico with his family and settled in Santa Maria de Guido...

Exceptional, well crafted vintage hard leather briefcase, attache case in very fine, original, clean and ready to use condition. The case features a fitted interior with saddle bag s...

Colourful Mid-Century Modern Italian Partition Wall or Room Divider Partition wall or room divider consisting of three poles made of lacquered metal an...

The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by skilled artisans, ultimately making each piece unique, designed in Paris and produced in the Philippines. As an ode to vintage steamer trunks...

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

Vetement Couture limited edition calfskin paperbag clutch messenger bag, fall winter 2019. Numbered, limited edition.

This is a vintage deed box. An English, Art Deco iron document or deposit chest, dating to the early 20th century, circa 1930. Displays a desirable age...

Substantial cowhide bag with brass hardware and closure. Used a travel bag for physicians to play tools and prescriptions in. Perfect as a purse or for tra...

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, ...

Rustic wood room divider, circa 1930 By unknown artisan, France. Wood Room Divider After Alvar Aalto, circa 1970 By unknown manufacturer. In original condition, with minor wear co...