Lot 404

Exceptional Antique Woven Fiber, Wood & Tinned Metal Steamer Trunk with Original Hardware, Early 20th Century

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Lot 404
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Exceptional Antique Woven Fiber, Wood & Tinned Metal Steamer Trunk with Original Hardware, Early 20th Century
Exceptional Antique Woven Fiber, Wood & Tinned Metal Steamer Trunk with Original Hardware, Early 20th Century
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Exceptional Antique Woven Fiber, Wood & Tinned Metal Steamer Trunk with Original Hardware, Early 20th Century

Current Bid: $10

(2 Bids)
by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

An exceptional antique steamer trunk of substantial form, masterfully constructed with a hardwood carcass clad in woven fiber overlaid with protective tinned metal edging and reinforced by solid oak slats secured with decorative pressed steel corner mounts. Retaining its original hardware, including dual latches, central lock assembly, side carrying handles, and interior lid stays, the trunk is a handsome example of the durable luggage produced during the golden age of rail and steamship travel. The exterior features an attractive woven checker-pattern fiber covering accented by contrasting stained oak battens and black japanned metal trim, a distinctive combination employed by leading American trunk manufacturers during the first decades of the twentieth century. Designed to withstand the rigors of transcontinental rail journeys and overseas voyages, trunks of this quality offered travelers both strength and relatively light weight compared to earlier all-wood examples. The spacious interior retains its original patterned paper lining, offering an authentic glimpse into the craftsmanship and materials characteristic of the period. While originally intended for travel, trunks of this type have become increasingly sought after as decorative furnishings, serving equally well as coffee tables, blanket chests, or statement storage pieces in traditional, industrial, or eclectic interiors. Reflecting the transition from the elaborate Victorian trunk to the more practical luggage of the early twentieth century, this impressive example embodies both functional design and enduring craftsmanship. Its untouched surface, original fittings, and honest patina contribute to its authenticity and decorative appeal. A desirable and increasingly scarce survivor of America's golden age of travel, equally suitable for collectors of antique luggage, Americana, or early twentieth-century decorative arts.

  • Literature: Comparable examples are illustrated in period Sears, Roebuck & Co., Montgomery Ward, and Belber luggage catalogs, as well as in collections documenting American steamer trunks and early twentieth-century travel accessories. Similar woven fiber trunks were produced by noted makers including C.A. Taylor, Belber, Seward, and Innovation Trunk Company.
  • Circa: Early 20th Century, circa 1905–1925
  • Condition: Good antique condition consistent with age and use. Exterior exhibits expected wear including scuffs, abrasions, scratches, oxidation to metal hardware, finish loss, and areas of wear to the woven fiber covering. Interior retains its original paper lining with scattered staining, discoloration, and minor separations. Hardware appears largely original and intact, including side handles, hinges, latches, and central lock assembly. A well-preserved example displaying an attractive untouched patina.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50