Brass Trunks and Luggage
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Material: Brass
PORTOFINO - Light blue trolley - Your travel companion
Located in Ronco Briantino, MB
The sound of the waves of the sea, the legends of sailors, the secrets of the Mediterranean. A wonderful world is contained in Portofino, the luxury suitcase that pays homage to the ...
Category
2010s Italian Modern Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
1920's Louis Vuitton Trunk, Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk in Monogram
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Superb Louis Vuitton steamer trunk featuring stenciled canvas, all leather trim in deep chocolate color, solid brass Louis Vuitton stamped clasps, lock and studs, solid brass corners...
Category
1920s French Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Trunk, Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Louis Vuitton Hat Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This beautiful and very rare Louis Vuitton trunk features hand painted stenciled monogram canvas, honey color lozine trim, large leather side handles, stamped Louis Vuitton brass stu...
Category
Early 20th Century French Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Mid-19th Century Chinese Brass Bound Campaign Chest
Located in Chapel Hill, NC
Brass bound camphorwood campaign chest, Chinese, mid-19th century. Made for the English military market. Bail & rosette carrying handles. Brass escutcheons. Family provenance: purcha...
Category
Mid-19th Century Chinese Campaign Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
1920's Louis Vuitton Trunk, 70 cm Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Vuitton Hat Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Superb Louis Vuitton steamer trunk featuring stenciled canvas, all leather trim in deep chocolate color, solid brass Louis Vuitton stamped clasps, lock and studs, solid brass corners...
Category
1920s French Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Goyard Trunk, 1910 France
By Goyard
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Astounding vintage Goyard trunk in a rare extra large size. The oldest and largest antique Goyard trunk available for sale anywhere. Completely original leather, canvas and brass, un...
Category
1910s French Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
1950s Mod Coral Red Hat Box Leed's Tested Travelwear Luggage Prop
Located in Ferndale, MI
Mod 1950s round hat box/train case by Leeds Tested Travelwear New York. The coral-red textured exterior is a gorgeous pop of color with white piping and brass hardware details. An e...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Brass 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 side handles with stamped Moynat flanges and solid brass sta...
Category
Early 20th Century French Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Monogram Toiletry Bag Pochette Pouch 15
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
Monogram LV Toiletry Pochette Pouch 15 Date Code 881 TH, France
Authentic LOUIS VUITTON LV Monogram Toiletry Pouch 15. This cosmetic/ lipstick pouch or sm...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary French International Style Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Vintage Campaign Silver Chest, English, Teak, Brass, Shipping Trunk, Art Deco
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a vintage campaign silver chest. An English, teak and brass capped shipping trunk, dating to the Art Deco period, circa 1940.
Appealing example with superb, stout stocks an...
Category
Mid-20th Century British Art Deco Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
1964 Mr. Zip Leather Postal Sling Bag
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Behold, the vintage 1964 Leather Mr. Zip Postal Mail Bag, a timeless relic of postal history. Crafted from supple leather, this bag exudes a sense of elegance and durability, reminis...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Trunk, Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Alzer 75
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This piece of luggage is a magnificent Louis Vuitton Alzer monogramm suitcase. This 75 cm suitcase is almost the largest and surely the most luxury one made by Louis Vuitton. It feat...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary French Brass 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
Early 1900s French Other Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
French Wooden Steam Trunk with Runners, Brass, Iron, Leather Details, circa 1880
Located in Fayetteville, AR
This French wooden steam trunk from the late nineteenth century features locks stamped by the maker, Laffitte, and its address in Bordeaux, 19 Rue Esprits des Lois. Its wooden runner...
Category
Late 19th Century French Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Iron
Set of Three British 1920s Metal Traveling Trunks for Export with Brass Hardware
Located in Yonkers, NY
A set of three British suitcases from the early 20th century made for Export, including a Wilkes & Son, as well as a Warranted Best Steel. This captivating set of three early 20th-ce...
Category
Early 20th Century Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal, Brass
A Rare 19th Century Camphor Wood Brass Bound Trunk
Located in Dublin, IE
A rare 19th Century finely hand carved and richly patinated camphor wood trunk of exceptional quality, in original condition and brass bound throughout. The well figured moulded top...
Category
19th Century English Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
A Very Rare 19th Century Anglo Indian Travelling Trunk
Located in Dublin, IE
A very rare 19th Century Anglo Indian teak travelling trunk, finely hand carved beautifully accented with brass details throughout. The well figured, moulded and brass bound top of ...
Category
19th Century English Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Orange Louis Vuitton Trunk, Vuitton Courrier Trunk, Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This magnificent little Louis Vuitton courrier trunk features the very sought after orange canvas , Louis Vuitton stamped solid brass locks, studs and latches as well as beautiful la...
Category
Early 1900s French Art Deco Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Rare 20th Century Louis Vuitton "Low Wardrobe" Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Stunning and extremely rare, this early 20th century Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk was the must have item of any elite traveller. This never-been-seen-before trunk is covered in the w...
Category
1920s French Other Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
2nd World War Military Campaign Steamer Trunk Owner Major McGregor Medical Corps
Located in High Wycombe, GB
A Well Preserved British 2nd World War Military Campaign Steamer Trunk. Owner Major RM McGregor. Medical Corps
27 Bridge Street Hawick
At No 27 is the long-established Deans Chartere...
Category
Early 20th Century English Campaign Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Woven Rattan Suitcase Pair with Brass Hardware
Located in Ferndale, MI
1970s pair of woven rattan luggage pieces with brass details and black stained wood interiors. Natural material vintage decor pieces to create a layered look in any room.
Smaller lu...
Category
Late 20th Century Unknown Bohemian Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Suitcase Bisten 80 Paris 1970s
Located in Milano, IT
Louis Vuitton model Bisten 80 hard suitcase in the iconic monogram canvas, dating from the 1970s. The interior is lined and the handles rounded with leather; the corners are brass an...
Category
1970s French Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Vintage French Cream Leather or Vellum Lavoët Cube Shaped Suitcase or Valise
Located in AMSTERDAM, NH
Experience the elegance of this French luxury cream vellum cube-shaped suitcase or valise from the 1920s.
This sophisticated piece, manufactured by Lavoët, Paris (Bd Haussmann), is ...
Category
Early 20th Century Industrial Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Gucci, Italy Hand-Stitched Black Leather Travel Tie Case Necktie Holder Rack
By Gucci
Located in Atlanta, GA
This exceptional luxury travel tie case by Gucci will keep your ties wrinkle-free while traveling. This is a rare late 20th-century tie holder case in fine-grain black leather with r...
Category
Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal, 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
1930s French Other Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique English Iron Milner's Patent Fire Resisting Safe Painted Green
Located in Centennial, CO
Antique late 1800s English iron Milner's Patent Fire Resisting Safe painted a gorgeous dark green with painted aqua interior. Gorgeous embossed brass circular plate and key plate wit...
Category
Late 19th Century British British Colonial Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Iron
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
Early 20th Century French Brass 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
15th Century and Earlier French Other Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Classic 1970s Gucci Leather Brief Case, Made in Italy
By Gucci
Located in Buffalo, NY
Classic 1970s Gucci leather brief case, made in Italy, nice original condition, monogramed, no key.
Category
1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Rare 20Th Century Louis Vuitton Car Trunk In Monogram Canvas, France C.1910
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A very rare Louis Vuitton car trunk covered in the world famous monogram canvas. Car trunks were usually bespoke made for the owner’s car and would ordinarily be positioned inside th...
Category
1910s French Other Vintage Brass 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 Other Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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
Early 1900s French Other Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20th Century Louis Vuitton Hat 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 Other Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton Courier Trunk In Monogram 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
1910s French Other Vintage Brass 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
Late 20th Century French Brass 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 Other Antique Brass 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
Early 20th Century French Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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
Early 20th Century French Brass 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
Late 20th Century French Brass 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
1920s French Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Steel
Antique 19th Century Victorian Leather Suitcase With Painted Crest c.1850
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Antique mid-19th Century Victorian leather suitcase with a painted family crest. The suitcase is very well kept and features the original cotton lining, document holder and dust cove...
Category
1850s British Victorian Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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
Early 20th Century French Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Vintage Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Monogrammed Coated Canvas, Large-Sized
Located in San Francisco, CA
Vintage classic Louis Vuitton soft side suitcase with leather trims, zipper closure and wheels for easy transport. Open interior for you to pack as you like. Large-sized.
Category
Late 20th Century French Brass 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
1980s French Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique Korean Coin Chest
Located in Boynton Beach, FL
Charming antique coin box. From the Joseon Dynasty period. Chest is made from hardwood with dovetail joinery.
Has heavy patina and shows it’s age ve...
Category
19th Century Korean Chinese Export Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton 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 Brass 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 Brass 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
20th Century French Other Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Vintage Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Monogrammed Coated Canvas, Small-Sized
Located in San Francisco, CA
Vintage classic Louis Vuitton soft side suitcase with leather trims, zipper closure and wheels for easy transport. Open interior for you to pack as you like. Small-sized.
Category
Late 20th Century French Brass 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
Early 20th Century French Art Deco Brass 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
Early 20th Century French Brass 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
1910s French Vintage Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Wardrobe Trunk , Louis Vuitton Trunk, Vuitton Steamer Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This impressive Louis Vuitton wardrobe features monogramm canvas, lozine trim, LV stamped solid brass locks and studs as well as solid brass corners.
It has got a lift top that close...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary French Brass 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 Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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
Late 20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Brass 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
Early 20th Century English Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
English Victorian 19th Century Leather Travel Trunk with Brass Hardware
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English Victorian period brown leather trunk from the 19th century with brass accents and lateral handles. This 19th-century English Victorian brown leather trunk embodies the ele...
Category
19th Century English Antique Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Trunk, Louis Vuitton Suitcase, Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Alzer 80
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This piece of luggage is a magnificent Louis Vuitton Alzer monogramm suitcase. This 80 cm suitcase is the largest and the most luxury one made by Louis Vuitton. It features all Louis...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary French Brass Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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Large Steamer Trunk
Old Vintage Trunk
Steamer Trunk Coffee Table
Vintage Travel Trunk Furniture
Antique Wood Leather Trunk
Antique Leather Covered Trunk
Antique Blanket Trunks
Chinese Painted Trunk