20th Century Trunks and Luggage
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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
By Hermès
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
By Goyard
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
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