Sonderanfertigung - Rarität - Einzelstück - Suitcase

Rare Art Deco custom-made piece in aluminum – Viennese Modernism, probably Vienna around 1930!!

Exceptional Art Deco document case in aluminum – probably Vienna, around 1928–1938

Rare and hitherto undocumented example of functionalist design from the interwar period. This extraordinary documents, sample, or presentation case combines the technical elegance of Art Deco with the clear formal language of Viennese Modernism.

The construction consists of large aluminum plates, which are meticulously riveted and combined with black leather applications. High-quality metal fittings, precisely executed locking mechanisms, and an original leather handle underscore the elevated craftsmanship. Particularly noteworthy is the technically demanding accordion-fold construction inside, whose careful execution suggests specialized workshop manufacture.

The use of aluminum in the late 1920s and early 1930s was a sign of progress, innovation, and modern design sensibility. The material was regarded as a symbol of technical avant-garde and found use in aviation, automobile manufacturing, as well as in exclusive consumer objects for the well-to-do bourgeoisie. The architectural rigor of the form and the visible rivet construction give the object an unusually timeless presence.

So far, no manufacturer marks or identical comparison pieces could be documented. The overall execution therefore most likely indicates a custom-made piece or an extremely small workshop-run production, possibly made for an architect, engineer, industrialist, or technical representative.

Stylistically, the object is close to the currents of Viennese Functionalism, Viennese Modernism, and the matter-of-fact Art Deco of the interwar period. The combination of aluminum, leather, and technical precision recalls the pioneering design principles of that era, in which form and function fused into a complete unity.

Cataloging

Object: Document-, sample-, or presentation case
Origin: probably Vienna, Austria
Dating: ca. 1928–1938
Style: Art Deco, Viennese Modernism, Functionalism
Material: Aluminum, leather, metal fittings
Execution: probably custom-made or small-series craft work
Dimensions: 36 × 20 × 19 cm

An exceptional collectible with pronounced one-off character, which noteworthy combines design history, craftsmanship, and industrial aesthetics.

Regarding the condition: The exterior aluminum/metal shows minimal light dings as seen in the detail photos; further, on the outer edge the metal is dented a bit, something that can certainly be repaired… the surface further has minor wear. There are scratches (see photos)!