Travel trunk





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A large circa 1880–1900 steamer trunk with a solid wood frame, honey-toned leather covering, and iron fittings, measuring 112 x 62 x 31 cm.
Description from the seller
Large-format antique travel trunk – Late 19th century (c. 1880–1900)
Magnificent original travel trunk from the late 19th century, belonging to the golden age of grand rail and steamship travel.
This is a large specimen (approx. 112 x 62 x 31 cm), flat-topped steamer trunk designed to be stacked during transoceanic journeys. Its presence is imposing and makes it an ideal piece for both collection and interior decoration.
Highlights:
Era: circa 1880–1900
Origin: Europe (likely France or surrounding area)
Materials: solid wood frame, honey-toned leather/skin upholstery, reinforced with wood and iron hardware
Original hardware: corner pieces, locks, and rivets preserved
Plate with initials of the original owner, adding historical character and authenticity
Original interior in wood
Condition:
The trunk remains in its original condition, with wear appropriate to its age (over 120 years), which gives it an authentic patina highly valued.
Shows normal signs of use on the exterior and interior wear, without affecting its structural solidity.
Historical context:
This type of trunk was used during the expansion of rail and maritime transport in the 19th century. Its flat design allowed optimizing space in ship holds and train carriages, making it an essential item for long-distance travelers.
Current use:
Today it is a highly valued piece as:
Vintage decorative element
Center coffee table or bed end table
Collectible object
Notes:
Completely original piece, not restored, preserving all its historical elements.
A unique opportunity to acquire an authentic witness to the history of 19th-century travel, with strong aesthetic presence and decorative value.
Seller's Story
Large-format antique travel trunk – Late 19th century (c. 1880–1900)
Magnificent original travel trunk from the late 19th century, belonging to the golden age of grand rail and steamship travel.
This is a large specimen (approx. 112 x 62 x 31 cm), flat-topped steamer trunk designed to be stacked during transoceanic journeys. Its presence is imposing and makes it an ideal piece for both collection and interior decoration.
Highlights:
Era: circa 1880–1900
Origin: Europe (likely France or surrounding area)
Materials: solid wood frame, honey-toned leather/skin upholstery, reinforced with wood and iron hardware
Original hardware: corner pieces, locks, and rivets preserved
Plate with initials of the original owner, adding historical character and authenticity
Original interior in wood
Condition:
The trunk remains in its original condition, with wear appropriate to its age (over 120 years), which gives it an authentic patina highly valued.
Shows normal signs of use on the exterior and interior wear, without affecting its structural solidity.
Historical context:
This type of trunk was used during the expansion of rail and maritime transport in the 19th century. Its flat design allowed optimizing space in ship holds and train carriages, making it an essential item for long-distance travelers.
Current use:
Today it is a highly valued piece as:
Vintage decorative element
Center coffee table or bed end table
Collectible object
Notes:
Completely original piece, not restored, preserving all its historical elements.
A unique opportunity to acquire an authentic witness to the history of 19th-century travel, with strong aesthetic presence and decorative value.

