Other Trunks and Luggage
to
1
94
10
103
1
88
78
73
61
30
25
22
15
12
11
6
3
3
3
2
2
1
1
12
90
1
8
4
3
2
4
1
2
1
1
88
83
79
78
78
97
81
10
6
4
104
104
104
78
2
1
1
Style: Other
Swedish 19th Century Painted Pine Marriage Trunk
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
A large 19th century iron bound painted marriage trunk. The exterior of this truck is painted blue with colorful flower baskets and arrangements on its facade with the monogram, “B S...
Category
19th Century Swedish Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
French 19th Century Steamer Trunk
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
A fantastic 19th century French traveling trunk, constructed of pine and steel, dressed in light peach colored illustrations on paper. Graphic, geometric patterns and stylized cartou...
Category
19th Century French Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
Swedish 19th Century Painted Pine Marriage Trunk
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
A Swedish 19th century iron bound painted marriage trunk. The exterior of this trunk is painted blue with colorful flower baskets and arrangements on its facade with the monogram, “A...
Category
19th Century Swedish Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Cabin Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Hat Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
21st Century French Extremely Rare "Assouline" Trunk By Goyard, Paris c.2005
By Goyard
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Renowned for its mastery of luxurious luggage, the Parisian brand Goyard has partnered with Assouline to create a limited-edition trunk. This exquisite piece, wrapped in pristine che...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
19th Century Painted Pine Marriage Trunk
Located in Baton Rouge, LA
A petite table top painted marriage trunk from Sweden. This colorful and cheerful trunk has a painted reddish faux bois background with painted floral decorations on the top and fron...
Category
19th Century Swedish Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Vintage 20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1926
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An early 20th Century monogram trunk by Louis Vuitton. This trunk was the must have item of any elite traveller. Covered in the world famous LV Monogram canvas, it oozes style and elegance. Inside, a full length tray, a hat basket and a split tray in the classic ercu canvas. A fantastic conversation piece, great size for a coffee table or just as a standalone item suitable for any interior.
This particular example dates to around 1926 and is a great example of Louis Vuitton’s Monogram trunks...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20thC Louis Vuitton Special Order Large Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Quite possibly a one-of-a-kind, this huge Louis Vuitton was a special order trunk dating back to the turn of the century. Measuring an impressi...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An exquisite 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 monogram...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20thC Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Natural Cow Hide, France c.1900
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A very rare Louis Vuitton courier trunk covered in leather. Dating to the very early part of the 20th century, covered not in the world famous (but more common) monogram canvas but i...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 45 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A lovely Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag in monogram canvas and natural tan leather, made in France in the latter quarter of the 20th century. Steamer bags have been produced by Lou...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 65 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag covered monogram canvas and natural tan leather, serves as a quintessential representation of the brand's unwavering commitment to a design that ha...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 45 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag covered monogram canvas and natural tan leather, serves as a quintessential representation of the brand's unwavering commitment to a design that ha...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Trunk with Kilim
Located in Alessandria, Piemonte
Padded trunk made in Italy but covered with a brightly colored kilim.
It prings cheer. In a beach house it can hold beach towels.
Also very convenient as a bench in an entryway.
re...
Category
Late 20th Century Turkish Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wool, Fruitwood
$1,436
20thC Louis Vuitton Encyclopedia Britannica Trunk In Monogram Canvas c.1911
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
This very unusual trunk, dating from around 1911, was specially commissioned by Encyclopaedia Britannica and is associated with Cambridge. As described in 100 Legendary Trunks by Louis Vuitton, the idea was both ingenious and practical: rather than having to decide what essential reading material one might bring to a desert island, why not take the entire Encyclopaedia Britannica? Recognised as the most comprehensive and well-researched collection of knowledge, the encyclopaedia was continuously revised and updated, making it not only an indispensable source of learning but also an ideal companion for long journeys. In 1910, the publisher—linked to Cambridge University—placed an order for 1,000 trunks a full year before the eleventh edition was released. Each trunk was designed to house twenty-nine volumes, totalling roughly 28,000 pages (excluding the index) and containing 40,000 articles, all carefully edited to expand its market reach in North America.
Louis Vuitton was at the forefront of luxury trunk design during this era, and his library trunk...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 55 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag covered monogram canvas and natural tan leather, serves as a quintessential representation of the brand's unwavering commitment to a design that ha...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1900
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 French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1930
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A stunning early 20th century Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk covered in the world famous LV monogrammed canvas. With its lozine borders and brass fittings it would have been the top of...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Malle Cabine. Paris, 1899-1904
Located in Milano, IT
Louis Vuitton trunk dated between 1899 and 1904, covered in monogrammed Jacquard tissée canvas. This type of fabric, used between 1896 and 1904, represents one of the most complicate...
Category
Early 1900s French Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Canvas
20th Century Louis Vuitton Cabin Trunk In Monogram Canvas, 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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 65 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A large Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag in monogram canvas and natural tan leather, made in France in the latter quarter of the 20th century. This particular model is a massive 65cm...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Suitcase In Monogram Canvas, France c.1970
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A charming Louis Vuitton hard-sided case, mid to late 20th century, the exterior finished in the famous monogram canvas with brass fittings. A great piece for use today or as a decor...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20thC Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Hat Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
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, with its lozine borders and brass fitting it would have been the top of t...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 35 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A lovely Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag in monogram canvas and natural tan leather, made in France in the latter quarter of the 20th century. Steamer bags have been produced by Lou...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1910
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An exquisite 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 monogram...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Steamer 35 Bag In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A lovely Louis Vuitton steamer travel bag in monogram canvas and natural tan leather, made in France in the latter quarter of the 20th century. Steamer bags have been produced by Lou...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, Made In France c.1930
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An early-20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk. 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 throughout the years.
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...
Category
1930s French Vintage Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
A 20th Century Louis Vuitton Briefcase Finished In Black Epi Leather, France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A lovely late 20th century Louis Vuitton briefcase finished in black Epi leather. The Louis Vuitton Epi Leather line is produced from strictly chosen cowhide leather. It was introduc...
Category
1990s French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Shoe Trunk, France c.1930
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A magnificent and exceptionally rare Louis Vuitton shoe trunk, adorned with stencilled monogram canvas, lozine trim and brass fittings. Elevating its uniqueness is the remarkably unc...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Hat Trunk In Rare "Vuittonite" Canvas, France c.1900
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A beautiful Louis Vuitton hat trunk, circa 1900's, featuring an extremely rare camel coloured “Vuittonite“ canvas, all brass hardware, and leather trims. It is in exceptionally good ...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
19th Century Victorian Pair Of Brass Davy & Co Yacht Cabin Oil Lamps c.1890
By Davey & Co.
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique 19th Century Victorian pair of oil lamps by Davey & Co London Ltd. Made from brass and bevelled glass, with a faceted panel in the back to reflect the light, these lamps were...
Category
19th Century British Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Goyard Courier Trunk In Chevron Canvas, France c.1900
By Goyard
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A Goyard courier trunk, completely original and with great character. Dating to the early part of the 20th century (circa 1900/1910) this trunk was finished with the famous chevron c...
Category
Early 1900s French Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Cabin 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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Courier 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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Suitcase In Monogram Canvas, France c.1970
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 French Vintage Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather, Canvas
Antique Rare 20thC Louis Vuitton "Malle Fleurs" Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France
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 French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Trunk In Monogram Canvas, 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 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 French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Cabin Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20thC Louis Vuitton Presidential Briefcase In Monogram Canvas, Made In France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A charming Louis Vuitton hard-sided case, late 20th century, the exterior finished in the famous monogram canvas with brass fittings. This beautiful example is in great condition, al...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather, Canvas
20th Century Louis Vuitton Courier 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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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 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 French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton "Malle Haute" Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An exquisite early 20th Century “malle haute“ (tall trunk) by Louis Vuitton. Covered in the world famous LV monogrammed canvas, with its leather trim and brass fittings, it would hav...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France
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 French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20thC Louis Vuitton Presidential Briefcase In Monogram Canvas, France c.1980
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A charming Louis Vuitton hard-sided case, late 20th century, the exterior finished in the famous monogram canvas with brass fittings. This beautiful example is in great condition, al...
Category
20th Century French Other 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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Cabin Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1910
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1920
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 French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20thC Louis Vuitton "Malle Haute" Trunk In Woven Canvas, France c.1900
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1950
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Stunning and, most importantly, complete, this mid 20th century Louis Vuitton trunk represents the pinnacle of luxury travel and was an essential item for any elite traveler of the t...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20thC Louis Vuitton Presidential Briefcase In Monogram Canvas, France c.1980
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A charming Louis Vuitton hard-sided case, late 20th century, the exterior finished in the famous monogram canvas with brass fittings. This beautiful example is in great condition, al...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1930
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A stunning early 20th century Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk covered in the world famous LV monogrammed canvas. With its lozine borders and brass fittings it would have been the top of...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal, Brass
Antique European Painted Large Wooden Dome Top Sea Trunk Treasure Chest
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Antique European Painted Large Wooden Dome Top Sea Trunk Treasure Chest (Locked, no key). Item features a heavy solid wood construction, with cast iron hardware and remnants of the h...
Category
18th Century Unknown Antique Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wood, Paint
20th Century Louis Vuitton Shoe Trunk, France c.1930
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A magnificent and exceptionally rare Louis Vuitton shoe trunk, adorned with stencilled monogram canvas, lozine trim and brass fittings. Elevating its uniqueness is the remarkably uncommon size that distinguishes it from standard models. This extraordinary piece measures an impressive 90cm in length, an astounding 50% wider than the already scarce shoe trunks typically encountered. Dating back to the first half of the 20th century, this trunk was an indispensable possession for discerning elite travellers, evoking the grandeur of passenger ships and the first-class luxury of bygone eras.
Designed with the utmost attention to detail, this rare find is equipped with its original lift-out trays, showcasing the timeless craftsmanship that has come to define Louis Vuitton...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
19th Century Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Striped Canvas, France c.1885
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique 19th Century Louis Vuitton trunk in striped canvas. The earliest Louis Vuitton trunks were revolutionary when they hit the market. It had a flat lid, rather than the domed li...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
Antique 20thC Louis Vuitton Malle Haute Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France c.1910
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
An exquisite “malle haute“ (tall trunk) by Louis Vuitton, early 20th century. The malle haute is the largest of the standard sizes, any trunk larger than this one would have been cus...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
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
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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
1910s French Vintage Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather, Canvas, Wood
20th Century Louis Vuitton Black Epi Leather Document Case, Made In France c1990
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A late 20th Century Louis Vuitton document case, crafted in Epi leather with brass accents. Made in France around 1990, this soft briefcase...
Category
20th Century French Other Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Other trunks and luggage for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a broad range of unique Other trunks and luggage for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for trunks and luggage differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $500 and tops out at $19,972 while the average work can sell for $1,711.
Recently Viewed
View AllMore Ways To Browse
Stack Of Vintage Suitcases
Wedding Chests
Army Trunk
Carriage Trunks
Cube Trunk
Louis Vuitton City Trunk Bag
Louis Vuitton Trunk 110
Antique Sea Trunks
Carved Camphor Wood Trunk
Chinese Chinoiserie Trunk
Crown Luggage
German Leather Luggage
Malle Haute
Malle Louis Vuitton 1900
Tack Trunk
1930s Steamer Trunk
Aluminium Steamer Trunks
Antique Tibetan Trunk