Trunks became very popular in the Victorian Era, at this point railroads were established as well as inter-continental travel by water, making long distance trips more accessible and thus easier to transport luggage.
Early trunks were usually a simple lockable wooden box with a paper-lined interior, but like most things from the Victorian period, went on to become intricately designed making them attractive as well as functional. They were covered in leather (or sometimes painted with ornate designs), paper, canvas and some form of decorative metal hardware. This was offset by practical features such as different compartments, drawers, trays and hangers.
Trunks were ubiquitous up until the 1920s, solidifying their position in history and paving the way for our continued interest and current use as decorative furniture, such as a storage chest or even a coffee table.
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| 1910 French 'mocodile' trunk in printed canvas with polished wooden struts. |
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| Low steamer with solid lock, studs, knuckles and painted panels with original labels. |
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| Rare and well conditioned Campaign trunk, circa 1900s. Originally the property of Col. J W Hackett (eventually Lieut. General). Solid leather construction with original padlock and key over brass hasp. |
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| Large and impressive French ocean liner trunk from 1910. Heavily ribbed canvas outer with polished wooden banding and brass locks and trimming with leather edging. |
Leslie Verrinder of Tin Tin Collectables gives his advice on caring for your antique and vintage luggage in a special Homes & Antiques
cut out and keep article.
Tin Tin Collectables Luggage is based on the first floor at Alfies.
Stand F014
020 7258 1305
