Original Canvas & Interior W/Tray - Straps - Brass Lock & Hardware
Mendel - Cincinnati - Maker
Circa 1915
SOLD
This vintage trunk was made by Mendel in Cincinnati who was a noted trunk maker and in 1918
partnered with another to form Mendel-Drucker. This particular trunk was purchased in Cincinnati
by a gentleman who used it for travel and then gave it as a gift to a young girl who was a friend of
the family in the 1930's. I purchased it from that same wonderful young lady some 75 years later.
The trunk measures 31"L X 23"H X 18.5"W. It has its original canvas which is perfect and freshly
painted. The metal banding around the lid is canvas covered as well and accented with a brown
paint. It is decorated with metal buttons. The hardware is a mix of solid brass and heavy brass plate
with copper handle holders. On the back are three heavy duty re-enforced hinges. Everything is
tightly secure and very solid. The trim was a white compressed material made to resemble vellum
leather which was in style at the time. It had aged darker so I cleaned it up to give it a marbled look
with the primary color being yellowish like old ivory. It is a very durable substance with a scalloped
design and highly nailed. I am guessing there to be a couple thousand small nails holding it down
which would have been a bit of work. The lock is swirled brass from Eagle Lock Company stamped
with an 1892 patent and brown straps have been added. The bottom is like new with oversize
wheels which roll perfectly.
The interior is a heavy linen in wonderful condition. A light finish coat was applied to it and it
darkened slightly and sort of has a wood appearance. Originally would have had two trays and only
one is present. The one present is the bottom tray so it currently sits down in the trunk. I can adjust
the wood rails so that it sits up like normal, just let me know to do so when purchasing. On the
inside lid is the original document holder and below that is a label stating the trunks guarantee on
its construction. Really nice shape inside. Also present are the two original copper plated lid props.
It is a busy trunk with a handsome look and should breeze through a couple more generations no
problem.
