Metal Trunks and Luggage
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Material: Metal
Louis XVI Style Cut-Glass Travel Nécessaire by Boin Taburet, circa 1880
By Boin-Taburet
Located in Brighton, West Sussex
An exceptional Louis XVI style silver-gilt and cut-glass travel nécessaire by Boin Taburet.
French, circa 1880.
The lock engraved ‘BOIN TABURET 3, rue Pasquier, Paris’.
Thi...
Category
Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Silver
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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique 20thC Louis Vuitton "Malle Haute" Trunk In Damier Canvas, France c.1900
Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
A Damier “malle haute“ (tall trunk) by Louis Vuitton, early 20th century. This trunk was the must have item of any elite traveller. This trunk is covered in the world famous Damier (...
Category
20th Century French Other Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Crocodile Attache Briefcase Overnight Case Original Leather Interior
Located in BUNGAY, SUFFOLK
A fine, 19th century, high quality, crocodile attache, briefcase or overnight case with exposed handle, brass hardware with lock stamped 'secure leve...
Category
20th Century English Art Deco Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
FINE MID 17TH CENTURY GERMAN WROUGHT IRON SAFE CHEST TRUNK WiTH ORIGINAL KEY
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this stunning, mid 17th century German Wrought Iron painted safe chest with the original key
Please note t...
Category
17th Century German Charles II Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Wrought Iron
Original Hand Painted Swedish Dome Top Trunk dated 1865
Located in Round Top, TX
This original painted trunk is a great example of Swedish country craftsmanship. The domed top, and hand-painted monogram all reflect its Swedish heritage. Dated 1865, it was likely ...
Category
Mid-19th Century Swedish Country Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
1930
s Moynat Trunk with M Pattern, 90 cm Moynat Steamer Trunk, Moynat Trunk
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This Moynat steamer trunk features the very nice and sought after hand-painted typical 'M'-pattern canvas as well as brass corners, 2 brass Moynat stamped locks, toffee color lozine ...
Category
1930s French Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
1950s Hermès Ebony Brush
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beautiful Hermès clothing brush. Made from rare Ebony Macassar wood, boar bristles and brass. This brush is meant to preserve the life and appearance o...
Category
1960s French Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
$1,800
Travelling Trunk By P.J. Botto
Co
Located in San Francisco, CA
Traveling trunk by P.J. Botto & Co., Louisville, Kentucky. Pine wood with metal straps, original fish shaped lock (non functional) & two shelf inserts. C. 1890
Category
Late 19th Century Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Leather Shoulder Duffle Style Bag with Brass Supports
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A wonderful duffle bag and perfect for weekend Getaway - luggage with many compartments and shoulder strap. The studs and supports are of brass, sturdy and decorative. The piece has side pockets as well as a zipper on the outside and under flap is a place for check book...
Category
20th Century Metal 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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
English Victorian Period 1880s Leather Hide Hat Case with Removable Divider
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English Victorian period leather hide hat case from the late 19th century, with G.C monogram, lined in red with removable divider. Created in England durin...
Category
Late 19th Century English Victorian Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
French Early 20th Century Bibliotheque du Senat Trunk
Located in Stockbridge, GA
French early 20th century Bibliotheque du Senat trunk.
Category
Early 20th Century French Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Pair Vintage 1920
s, 30
s Louis Vuitton Alzer 80 and 70 monogram luggage
Located in Buffalo, NY
Pair Vintage 1920's, 30's Louis Vuitton Alzer 80 and 70 monogram luggage .Original hardware/detailing with leather handles. Personalized hand pa...
Category
1930s French Art Deco Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Country Rustic Weathered Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
American Country Rustic weathered grey painted narrow rectangular (box) floor trunk with iron side handles
Category
20th Century American Country Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
English 1920s Sarah Rackett Metal Trunk with Handles Mounted on New Custom Stand
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English metal trunk from the early 20th century, on custom stand. Created in England during the first quarter of the 20th century, this metal trunk is accented with brass hardware...
Category
Early 20th Century English Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal, Brass
ViNTAGE HAND CARVED JARABOSKY DOME TOPPED STEAMER TRAVEL TRUNK STAMPED ON FRONT
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this very good looking and highly decorative Jarabosky teak dome topped steamer travel trunk
Please note t...
Category
20th Century European Victorian Metal 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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Copper and Brass Umbrella Stand by Vereinigte Werkstätten München, circa 1955
Located in Landau an der Isar, Bayern
Delightful handcrafted German Mid-Century modern umbrella stand or holder by the Vereinigte Werkstätten (Atelier) München, circa 1955. Handmade in patinated copper with cast brass tr...
Category
Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Copper
Antique Casablanca Travel Trunk, African, Leather, Portmanteau Case, Edwardian
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is an antique Casablanca travel trunk. A North African, leather portmanteau case dating to the Edwardian period, circa 1910. A charming and tactile example, rich in colour and d...
Category
Early 20th Century North African Edwardian Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Tin
English Oak Trunk with Metal Accents and Lateral Handles, Late 19th Century
Located in Atlanta, GA
An English Victorian period oak trunk from the late 19th century, with metal accents and lateral handles. Born in England during the last decade of the 19th century, this handsome oa...
Category
Late 19th Century English Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
19th Century Swedish Mid-Sized Iron Trunk Safe with Locks and Key
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Swedish iron safe from the 19th century. This antique Swedish rectangular-shaped iron safe features three chunky padlocks which dangle open from the front top (note that these cann...
Category
19th Century Swedish Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal, Iron
Japanese Post War Aluminum Riveted Trunk on Iron Stand with Glass Top, Restored
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Japanese Post War Aluminum Riveted Trunk on Iron Stand with Glass Top, Restored
Experience a significant piece of history in an elegant form with our Japanese post war aluminum rive...
Category
20th Century Japanese Modern Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron, Aluminum
$1,516 Sale Price / set
20% Off
19th Century Spanish Victorian Carved Walnut and Bronze Reliefs Sewing Table
Located in Miami, FL
19th Spanish Victorian carved walnut and bronze reliefs sewing table
Spectacular sewing table with carved edges, bronze legs and beautiful bronze sculptures reliefs decorating aroun...
Category
Mid-19th Century Spanish Victorian Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Bronze
Antique Leather Traveling Trunk with Hand-Painted Carriage Scene
Located in Barcelona, ES
Dome Top Leather Trunk with poychrome hand Painted Scene, early 20th century.
A gorgeous traveling trunk from France with a hand painted horse carriage landcape at the lid.
Wooden tr...
Category
Early 20th Century French Gothic Revival Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Iron
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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
English Campaign Camphor Wood Hinged Trunk with Orig. Brass Side Handles, C 1820
Located in Charleston, SC
English campaign camphor wood hinged trunk with a fitted interior removable shelf, flanking brass keyhole escutcheons, interior locks, and retains the original brass side mounted han...
Category
1820s English Campaign Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Vintage Art Deco Wood and Tin Metal Wrapped Red Faux Cane Wicker Chest Trunk Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Art Deco Wood and Tin Metal Wrapped Red Faux Cane Wicker Chest Trunk Box. Item features red "cane" design metal wrapped frame, wood supports, metal hardware, lined interior, ...
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Art Deco Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
Hollywood Regency Tessellated Marble Trunk or Side Table by Maitland Smith
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A modernist design trunk with an ornate base by Maitland Smith circa 1980's. Its consists of off white tessellated stone, scrolled steel base with black velvet interior.
Category
1980s Philippine Hollywood Regency Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Stone, Marble, Steel
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 Metal 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
1980s Indian Bohemian Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Enamel
$1,960 Sale Price / set
20% Off
English Chatham
Wilkes Faux Bois Steel Steamer Trunk J
E Bates Brass Latch
By Chatham
Wilkes, J
E Bates
Sons
Located in Cincinnati, OH
This Edwardian cold rolled annealed steel travel steamer trunk was made in Wolverhampton England by Chatham & Wilkes. The trunk has been decorated in a faux bois pattern with beauti...
Category
1910s English Edwardian Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Steel, Brass
DECORATIVE PAIR OF RESTORED ANTiQUE LOUIS VUITTON MONOGRAM SUITCASE TRUNKS
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely stunning pair of fully restored original Louis Vuitton Monogram Suitcase...
Category
1910s French Edwardian Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Rare vintage brown leather
ivory Pergamena suitcases by Prada
By Prada
Located in Varese, Lombardia
A very rare Prada Pergamena hard travel suitcase.
Vintage suitcase covered in parchment with light brown leather edges. Double pressure closure with numeric dial.
Internal lining in ...
Category
1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
Indian Vintage Wedding Chest with Brass Foliage Décor and Multiple Compartments
Located in Yonkers, NY
A Indian wedding chest from the mid 20th century, with brass accents, multiple jewelry compartments, floral décor and petite central mirror. Creat...
Category
Mid-20th Century Indian Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
17th Century Leather Travelling Trunk
Located in Greenwich, CT
Rare 17th century leather wrapped traveling trunk with its original wrought iron carrying handles and clasp. Original hand-painted coat of arms still retained on interior of lid.
Category
18th Century and Earlier English Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
1930s Goyard Hat Trunk, Goyard Trunk, 60 cm Goyard Steamer Trunk
By Goyard
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This magnificent Goyard hat trunk features the very sought after chevrons pattern canvas, solid Goyard engraved locks and clasps.Its trim is silver steel as well as its side handles...
Category
1930s French Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
PAIR OF ARMORIAL COAT OF ARMS VINTAGE BROWN LEATHER STEAMER TRUNK SIDE TABLEs
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely exquisite pair of lightly restored, vintage hand dyed brown leather steamer trunks...
Category
20th Century English Victorian Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Pair of Authentic Louis Vuitton Luggage Pieces
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Pair of authentic Louis Vuitton luggage pieces.
Individually numbered, pair of brass numbered keys included with both pieces.
Can be moun...
Category
1960s French Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
$12,500 / set
Korean Early 20th Century Storage Chest with Silver Plated Brass Hardware
Located in Yonkers, NY
An antique Korean storage chest from the early 20th century, with silver plated brass hardware and drop down panel. Created in Korea during the early years of the 20th century, this ...
Category
Early 20th Century Korean Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Silver Plate, 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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Large Antique Chinese Lacquered Trunk or Blanket Chest
Located in Sheffield, MA
The chest has dark reddish brown lacquered wood on the outside and the inside is lined with tan imitation leather material. There are three brass latches, one large one in front and a smaller one on each side next to iron handles. The sides are edged with thin sheets of overlapping lacquered wood having imitation stitching. The lid is attached to the bottom with three brass hinges. There is a small rectangle of Chinese lettering on the inside of the lid. Red Chinese Trunk.
Category
Late 19th Century Chinese Other Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass, Iron
18th Century Spanish Leather Trunk with Large Studded Nailhead Decoration
Located in Dallas, TX
A fantastic Spanish trunk with an angular dome top, the wood has been covered in leather on all sides except the back. The deep chocolate color leather has been affixed with various ...
Category
18th Century Spanish Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Paul Evans Style Cityscape Mixed Metal Patchwork Chest
Located in Houston, TX
Paul Evans style cityscape mixed metal patchwork chest.
Handsome Paul Evans style cityscape mixed metal patchwork chest, box, coffer or document box. ...
Category
1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
ONE OF A KiND ANTIQUE BROWN LEATHER STEAMER TRUNK WITH ARMORIAL COAT OF ARMS
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
Royal House Antiques
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely exquisite, fully restored, circa 1890-1900 hand dyed brown leather steamer trunk with one of...
Category
1890s English Late Victorian Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar Square Handled Alzer Cases Set of 3
Located in High Point, NC
A timeless treasure, these Louis Vuitton Monogram Macassar Square Handled Alzer Cases are a statement of luxury, craftsmanship, and heritage. In good pre-owned condition, the set fea...
Category
20th Century French Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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 Metal 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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
Pair of Authentic Louis Vuitton Luggage Pieces
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Pair of authentic Louis Vuitton luggage pieces.
Individually numbered, pair of brass numbered keys included with both pieces.
Can be moun...
Category
1960s French Vintage Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
$12,500 / set
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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
20th Century Louis Vuitton "Malle Haute" 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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Goyard Steamer Trunk, 86 cm Goyard Trunk in Chevrons Canvas
By Goyard
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This superb Goyard trunk features the very sought after chevrons canvas as well as all solid brass fittings. It features large golden leather front handle and golden color trim.Brass...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Metal 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 Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Louis Vuitton Traveling Lap Desk 65
Located in New York, NY
An extremely rare, special order at the time. The item doesn't come up in any books or research on the company about cases or trunks they made.
As per Louis Vuitton, this is a "Trav...
Category
Early 20th Century French Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Antique Chinese Red Leather Trunk on Stand
Located in Chapel Hill, NC
Antique Chinese red lacquered leather trunk mounted on a custom iron base. Trunk show evidence of were and there is color loss.
Category
Late 19th Century Chinese Chinese Export Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
American Country Slat Trunk
Located in Queens, NY
American Country (19th Cent) grey painted slat design floor trunk with wrought iron corners and trim
Category
19th Century American Country Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Spanish 17th Century Malle - Marriage Trunk
Located in Round Top, TX
A very handsome 17th century marriage trunk from the Catalan region of Spain. Beautifully constructed from wood, clad with leather and wonderful iron or...
Category
Late 18th Century Spanish Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Iron
Blonde Chinese Hide Storage Trunk, C. 1800
Located in Chicago, IL
Trunks and storage chests were the most ubiquitous form of household storage throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Used to store clothes, linens, kitchen utensils, and other miscel...
Category
Early 19th Century Chinese Minimalist Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
Camphorwood chest with original fittings.
Located in Kastrup, DK
High-quality camphorwood chest. The top and all sides are made from a single piece of mirror-cut camphorwood with a beautiful grain pattern.
Original brass fittings and carrying hand...
Category
Mid-19th Century Chinese Qing Antique Metal Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Brass
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Vintage Wooden Chest Trunk Trunks And Chests
1890 Louis Vuitton
1900s Steamer Trunk
1920 Metal Trunk
1940s Cabin
1970s Louis Vuitton Suitcase
Antique Luggage Tags
Antique Quilt Storage
Antique Steam Trunks
Antique Trunks 1800S
Black Lacquer Chinese Trunk
Book Trunk
Carriage Trunks
Catalogue Louis Vuitton
Cheney England
Chinese Travel Trunk
Dog Carrier