Skip to main content

20th Century Trunks and Luggage

2
696
to
108
342
334
696
696
696
85
66
43
20
18
7
5
4
3
3
2
1
128
353
70
270
171
120
52
24
51
34
17
17
21
33
26
12
400
383
372
300
249
444
236
102
69
67
143
19
8
7
7
Period: 20th Century
20th Century Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1910
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Around the turn of the 19th and 20th century Louis Vuitton had established himself as a market leader in trunk making and needed to set his now famous brand apart from the imitators ...
Category

French Other Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather, Canvas, Wood

20th Century Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1910
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Around the turn of the 19th and 20th century Louis Vuitton had established himself as a market leader in trunk making and needed to set his now famous brand apart from the imitators ...
Category

French Other Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather, Canvas, Wood

Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Hat Trunk In Monogram Canvas, Paris c.1900
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A superb example of an early 20th century Louis Vuitton hat trunk in the world famous monogrammed LV canvas. Complete with all its interior trays, this unusually sized trunk is in ve...
Category

French Other Antique 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Damier Canvas, France c.1900
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
One of the rarer Louis Vuitton trunks to be offered, this trunk is covered in the world famous damier (checkerboard) canvas. Dating to around 1900, it is a wonderful example of such ...
Category

French Other Antique 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Cabin Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1930
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Around the turn of the 19th and 20th century Louis Vuitton had established himself as a market leader in trunk making and needed to set his now famous brand apart from the imitators ...
Category

French Other Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Authentic Vintage Louis Vuitton Suitcase Valise
Located in San Francisco, CA
Original Louis Vuitton monogram hard suitcase or valise with original zippered folio. Excellent vintage condition, very lightly used, private origin. Made in France, 1970's.
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Canvas

Art Deco Steamer Trunk or Cabin Wardrobe by Hartman Luggage Co.
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
Art Deco Steamer Trunk or Cabin Wardrobe by Hartman Luggage Co. Early 20th Century Estate Wardrobe Trunk from Beckets Leather Goods Company Washington DC The trunk is complete it op...
Category

Art Deco Antique 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Steel

20th Century Louis Vuitton Malle Armoire Trunk Monogram Canvas, Paris c. 1914
Located in Pambio Noranco, CH
An exquisite “malle Armoire“ (wardrobe trunk) by Louis Vuitton, early 20th century made in France, Paris. The malle armoire was made in different sizes, this is the medium one. Cover...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Trunk Louis Vuitton Malle Cabine Tissé France XX secolo Paris 1870 circa
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

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Louis Vuitton Malle Cabine Damier trunk France 20th century circa 1890
Located in Pambio Noranco, CH
Louis Vuitton's elegant and exclusive Malle Cabine trunk, the Maison's travel icon. The sophisticated creation, with its compact design, was intended to be stowed under the cabin bed...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton "Malle Haute" Trunk In Monogram Canvas, Paris c. 1910
Located in Pambio Noranco, CH
An exquisite “malle haute“ (tall trunk) by Louis Vuitton, early 20th century made in France, Paris. The malle haute is the largest of the standard sizes, any trunk larger than this o...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

ViNTAGE HAND ALUMINIUM & BROWN LEATHER AVIATOR COFFEE TABLE STORAGE TRUNK CHEST
Located in GB
Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this lovely decorative hand hammered Aluminum & brown leather Aviation style drawers to be used as a TV stan...
Category

English Art Deco 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Aluminum

Louis Vuitton Malle Courrier Monogram trunk France 20th century circa 1915
Located in Pambio Noranco, CH
Louis Vuitton's elegant and exclusive Malle Courrier trunk, the Maison's travel icon. The sophisticated creation, with its compact design, was intended for use inside the voyage cabi...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Louis Vuitton Suitcase Trunk with Key
Located in North Bergen, NJ
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 ...
Category

20th Century Trunks and Luggage

ORIGINAL PAINT SiNGLE DRAWER STORAGE TRUNK OR CHEST IDEAL AS TOYS OR TV STAND
Located in GB
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

European Edwardian Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Pine

Louis Vuitton Malle Cabine Monogram trunk France 20th century circa 1930
Located in Pambio Noranco, CH
Louis Vuitton's elegant and exclusive Malle Cabine trunk, the Maison's travel icon. The sophisticated creation, with its compact design, was intended to be stowed under the cabin bed...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

1920's Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk in Stenciled Monogram, 90 cm Vuitton Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This very nice Louis Vuitton trunk features hand stenciled monogram canvas , black steel trim and Louis Vuitton stamped solid brass lock and and steel clasps, as well as black steel ...
Category

French Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass, Steel

Vintage 20th Century Wood & Metal Rustic Storage Trunk Accent Table
Located in Charlotte, NC
A Rustic style decorative storage trunk on legs or accent table, unbranded. Solid hardwood, lift up lid is on a hinge, bevel edge to the top, decorative metal accents, metal top & si...
Category

American Rustic 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Metal

Moynat Trunk, Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Hat Trunk, Moynat Luggage
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This beautiful and very rare Moynat trunk features beautiful checkers canvas, chocolate color leather trim, large leather side handles with stamped Moynat flanges and solid brass sta...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Art Deco Hard Case Leather Attache Briefcase after Bally, Hermes
Located in New York, NY
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...
Category

American Mid-Century Modern 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Vintage French Wicker Basket, Gold Color Stitched Leather Bag Handles France
Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR
This bag is is wicker, rattan, with Stitched leather bag handles. the color is gold, with an old Patina. This has been made in France circa 1970.   
Category

French Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Rattan trunk, Italy 1980
Located in Roma, RM
Rattan trunk. Italian production, 1980 Dimensions: 80 L x 48 H x 45 D cm
Category

Italian Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Rattan

Vintage Leather Suitcase with Original Stickers, 1950s
Located in Żory, PL
This leather travel suitcase was produced in the Czech Republic in the 1950s. The suitcase is in very good condition with numerous original stickers, mainly from tourist places in C...
Category

20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Pair Of Vintage Officer's Campaign Luggage, English, Leather Cases, Nightstand
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage officer's campaign luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bedside nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980. Exquisite casework, with n...
Category

British 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Vintage Crest Brown Leather Doctors Bag Carry on Luggage Suitcase
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Crest Brown Leather Doctors Bag Carry on Luggage Suitcase. Circa Mid 20th Century. Measurements: 11" H x 18" W x 10" D
Category

Art Deco 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Antique decorative small Zanzibar brass and copper mounted chest or strongbox
Located in Central England, GB
This remarkable and small beautifully proportioned Zanzibar chest is a highly decorative piece made from a mixture of teak and other various woods. This sturdy little chest or stron...
Category

Zanzibari Early Victorian 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Copper

1920s Continental Wooden Chest With Wooden Rollers
Located in Pasadena, CA
1920s Continental Wooden Chest With Wooden Rollers. Beautiful design with figural carvings on the exterior of the trunk. Iron fitting and hinges provide a strong connection and decor...
Category

Ethiopian Adirondack Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Iron

Pair Of Vintage Officer's Luggage Cases, English, Leather, Bedside Nightstand
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage officer's luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bound bedroom nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980.   Quality casework, with beaut...
Category

British Mid-Century Modern 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Moynat Trunk, Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Hat Trunk, Moynat Luggage
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This beautiful and very rare Moynat trunk features beautiful checkers canvas, chocolate color leather trim, large leather top handle with stamped Moynat f...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Moynat Shoe Trunk, Moynat Trunk, 77 cm Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Checkers
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This magnificent Moynat shoe trunk features checkers canvas, top quality Moynat stamped solid brass locks, brass studs and leather side handles. Its handles' flanges are engraved Moy...
Category

French Art Deco 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Vintage Louis Vuitton Luggage/Duffle Bag , c. 1980's
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage Louis Vuitton monogram luggage bag. The exterior of the bag is adorned with the renowned LV monogram pattern and vachetta leather deta...
Category

French Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Pair Early 20th C English Regimental Leather Covered Trunks
Located in Troy, MI
Circa 1920s pair of leather and brass covered trunks found in England. Both trunks have been fully restored with patched leather, new blue velour fabric interior, polished brass hard...
Category

English 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

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

English 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Tan Leather Case, circa 1910
Located in London, GB
An excellent sturdy tan leather case with solid brass catch and original leather lining with pockets and sleeves to accommodate fittings (now missing). The fittings that remain are t...
Category

British Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

High Relief Carved Camphor Wood Trunk
Located in Fulton, CA
Highly carved camphor wood trunk / hope or blanket chest. Trees, figures and sail boat motif. Very nice original condition and finish. Brass ...
Category

Chinese Chinese Export 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

1960s Czech Metal Trunk
Located in High Point, NC
This 1960s Czech Metal Trunk is a true testament to the era's craftsmanship and utilitarian design. The trunk's robust metal construction speaks of durabil...
Category

Czech 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Metal

Pair Of Vintage Officer's Campaign Luggage Cases, English, Leather, Nightstands
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage officer's campaign luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bedside nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980. Exquisite casework, with b...
Category

British Mid-Century Modern 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Pair Of Vintage Campaign Luggage Cases, English, Leather, Bedroom Nightstands
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a pair of vintage campaign luggage cases. An English, leather and brass bedside nightstand, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980.   Superb casework, with beautifully a...
Category

British Mid-Century Modern 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Large Antique Steamer Trunk, American, Leather, Brass, Shipping Chest, Edwardian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a large antique steamer trunk. An American, leather and brass bound shipping chest, dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. Fi...
Category

American Edwardian 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Rare Vintage HERMES Leather Suitcase
Located in Victoria, BC
Here is a beautiful and Rare Vintage Hermes Leather Suitcase. This handsome piece of luggage is in overall good condition for its age with wear...
Category

French Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Vintage LOUIS VUITTON MARMOTTE Sample Box
Located in Victoria, BC
Here is a wonderful Vintage LOUIS VUITTON MARMOTTE Sample Box. Made from composite material and reinforced with studded leather, this box was used to store samples in order to be abl...
Category

French Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Composition

20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer Bag In Epi Leather Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A large Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag in black Epi leather, made in France in the latter quarter of the 20th century. Steamer bags have been produced by Louis Vuitton for over 120...
Category

French Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

An Edwardian Dressing Case With Silver Accessories By Walker & Hall c.1928
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An English bridle hide dressing case with gilded silver accessories marked with the Walker and Hall stamp and a delicate engine turned pattern, including brushes, jars, mirror and do...
Category

British Other Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

World War 2 Era Military Trunk, c.1940
Located in San Francisco, CA
About A World War 2 era Army military trunk with original stenciled graphics on top, label and hinged lid. Army green with black and brick red stencil. ...
Category

20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Aluminum

Vintage Rustic Wooden Decorative Storage Trunk.
Located in Seattle, WA
Primitive Storage Trunk with Original Metal Hardware and Patina. Sturdy Construction. No Maker’s Mark. Vintage Condition Consistent with Age as Pictured. Dimensions. 29 W ; 8 D ; 9 H
Category

Mid-Century Modern Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Wood

Midcentury Japanese Aluminum Steamer Travel Trunk by Kowa
By Kowa
Located in Rio Vista, CA
Rare, midcentury industrial style WWII steamer travel trunk featuring an aeronautical aluminum and steel case. Crafted in Japan by Kowa. The riveted construction aluminum frame is ac...
Category

Japanese Mid-Century Modern 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

1940's Hartmann Traveling Trunk w/ Original Key
Located in San Francisco, CA
1940's Hartmann traveling trunk w/original key 25 x 21.5 x 39.5
Category

20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

1 OF 1 HERMES PARIS JOHN LOBB EXTRA LARGE SHOE TRUNK HAND DYED LEATHER PANELs
By Hermès, John Lobb
Located in GB
Royal House Antiques Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely stunning, 1 of 1, Hermes Paris made for John Lobb shoe trunk and care kit with all the origi...
Category

French Art Deco 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather, Beech

Antique 20th Century Vellum Overnight Case By Royal Doulton c.1920
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique 20th-century English suitcase crafted from luxurious vellum, accompanied by a compact interior vanity case, offers versatility for both joint and individual use. Adorned with...
Category

British Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Silk

Motoring Picnic Case, circa 1910
Located in London, GB
Impressive six person motoring picnic case; circa 1910. The collection comprises six enamelled tin plates, six ceramic cups with matching saucers and...
Category

European Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Metal, Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Suitcase In Natural Cow Hide, France c.1910
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

French Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A 20th Century Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag, crafted from monogram canvas and natural tan leather, serves as a quintessential representation of the brand's unwavering commitment to a design seamlessly harmonising style and utility. Inspired by the practical proportions of mailbags from the Americas, these bags effortlessly combine chic aesthetics with practical functionality—whether hung on a cabin door, displayed on a deck, or utilised for a spontaneous weekend getaway. The monogram canvas, adorned with iconic LV initials and floral motifs, stands out not only for its recognisability but also for its exceptional durability. Teamed with natural tan leather, this pairing gracefully matures, developing a lavish patina over time that enhances the bag's inherent character. The enduring design underscores Louis Vuitton's timeless allure, elevating these pieces to coveted collector's items that encapsulate the brand's storied history and commitment to impeccable craftsmanship. 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 industrialisation 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

French Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Large Goyard Steamer Trunk, circa 1910
Located in London, GB
Large steamer trunk by Goyard in their signature 'Goyardine' chevron pattern canvas covering with polished brass lock, catches & handles; circa 191...
Category

French Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Cow Hide Suitcase, France c.1920
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

French Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

20th Century Louis Vuitton Cow Hide Suitcase, France c.1920
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

French Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Exotic Brass Nail Head & Enameled Wood Nesting Trunks or Chests
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Circa 1980's brass nail head nesting blanket storage trunks. Each is beautifully hand crafted in wood with felt lining. Not marked by origin. Most likely India or Tiwan. They all s...
Category

Indian Bohemian Vintage 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass, Enamel

20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk, France c.1930
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 iconi...
Category

French Other 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Vintage Louis Vuitton monogram Stratos suitcase
Located in London, London
This Louis Vuitton vintage suitcase is a must-have for any collector or fashion lover. It is part of the 1985 LV Stratos collection, exp...
Category

French 20th Century Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather

Recently Viewed

View All