Palm Beach Trunks and Luggage

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...

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 ...

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.

The Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 is a house icon—timeless, versatile, and instantly recognizable. Crafted in the brand’s signature Monogram coated canvas with natural Vachetta leather tri...

American made suitcase manufactured by Hulbert Bros. They were in business from 1870-1909 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Free shipping within the United Stat...

Louis Vuitton, Steamer Trunk, Distressed Brown Leather, Monogram Canvas, France, Early 20th Century Large vintage steamer or luggage trunk by notorious French fashion house, Louis Vuitton circa 1920s/30s. This example is monogrammed with the original owner's initials and maintains several original interior fittings. The Case has been Professionally restored and refurbished by Louis Vuitton in France, 2024. Shipped via the Louis Vuitton Store...

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...

This is an antique Gentleman's valet suitcase. An English, leather fitted case with silver topped bottles, dating to the early 20th century, circa 1920. Superb fitted suitcase, rep...

A 1930's vintage USA hard shell suitcase in cream canvas with red stripes, leather and brass trim and hardware. The interior with a label reading Sioux by Oshkosh Luggage - None Finer 'Round the World. The exterior has a metal label reading Oshkosh Luggage and has the initials M.L.H under the handle. The bold and signature stripes on the "Chief" luggage line by Oshkosh sets it apart from the crowd. Made by the Oshkosh Luggage of Oshkosh, Wisconsin, the Chief Oshkosh...

Antique French Travel Trunk. Well made late 1800's. It measures 20" deep and high and 35.75" wide. Wear is consistent with age. Nice graphics and the handles are stamped LV.

This is an antique country gentleman's suitcase. A Scottish, leather travelling case, dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. Superb example wit...

Brown leather box with a beaver top hat . Red leather interior. From a Hamilton Massachusetts estate.