Trunk
Object NameTrunk
Datepre-1850s
MediumWood, metal brads, animal hide, likely deer
Dimensions1/2 × 27 1/2 × 13 in. (1.3 × 69.9 × 33 cm)
ClassificationsFurniture
Credit LineGift of Marian Daniells. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object number74.16.28
Status
On viewCollections
Label TextAmerican trunks date back to the 1600’s and hide-covered trunks using deer, horse or cowhides date back to the 1700’s. This is a pre-1850s deer hide covered wooden trunk with leather trim and brass tacks in a heart design is an example of an early transportation trunk. The 1830s-style trunks took on a boxier shape with a gently arched top to provide more storage for open wagon or carriage travel. Steamer trunks were to follow during the Victorian heyday of travel with a larger footprint, created for overseas journey in durable materials. Most American trunks made after 1900 were low grade and inexpensive, catering to a more economical and student traveler.
https://journalofantiques.com/columns/american-trunks/
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Farm House Museum
