High Point Trunks and Luggage

A charming Tibetan painted leather storage trunk, 18th century, Tibet. Of smaller size, the softwood construction of the trunk covered by a richly tanned yak leather. The central p...

Continental probably Swedish painted pine trunk, 19th century. With original paint, front and sides with dovetail construction.

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...

Rustic 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

A classic style. Add to your collection.

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...

A lovely steamer trunk with nice detailing and heavy duty, quality construction. Ca' 1890's. This trunk is large! Measuring 34.5" W, 26"H, 21"D.

I have been on the lookout for the ideal vintage birdcage for some time and recently came across this wonderful specimen in Rome. It is made of wood and metal wire in cream and blue....

A stunning example of 19th-century French craftsmanship, this large birdcage features a distinctive pagoda-shaped silhouette, blending architectural elegance with practical design. C...

A beautiful, classic 19th century English carved oak storage trunk or coffer. Incised decorative carved patterns in the front. It could be used as a coffee table, at the foot of a be...

This is a gigantic antique shop's display chest. An English, vellum and oak bound decorative trunk or coffee table, dating to the early 20th century, circa 1920. Unusual example with very large proportion at 4' x 3' - ideal for use as a distinctive coffee table Displays a desirable aged patina with a time worn appearance Finished in vellum, known for its resilient properties Bound with oak straps, showing rich caramel hues and fine grain interest Of such vast size, almost certainly crafted as a shop display piece Large lid held together with a pair of Chubb of London sliding clasps — key absent Pleasingly presentable original interior in good order, commensurate with age Dressed with leather strap handles to each end for ease of movement This is a fascinatingly large antique shop...

Made of humble pine, this late 19th-century Tibetan trunk once sparkled with vibrant color and shimmering gilt embellishment. A century of use has softened its original brilliance, t...