Vintage c1890 Alfred Clark Leather Vanity Gladstone Travel Bag Necessaire & Contents

This exceptional Gladstone travel case by Alfred Clark is a rare find. Dating from circa 1890s, it displays incredible workmanship and an array of vanity instruments. This case is extremely rare due to its patented opening mechanism by pushing two brass buttons, the front comes down and the the two sides can be opened allowing easy access to the interior and contents (patent number 725198).

It is stamped 'Clark. 20 Old Bond Street' on both the leather and the brass.

Alfred Clark was known to have set up his business silversmith/retail business at 20 Old Bond Street London during the early 1880’s where he remained until moving to a new premises at 33 New Bond Street. Alfred Clark very much catered for members of High Society and counted among his customers King Edward VII, King George VI and Queen Alexandra. One item, a cigarette case was engraved by Clarke for King George to give as a gift to his brother Edward prior to either becoming King. Clark was particularly renowned for his travelling trunks/bags.

The green leather exterior aged to a dark almost black colour is in amazing condition for it's age. There are scuffs and marks to be expected but no significant deterioration. The lock has no key but is solid and secure. The handle shows wear from age and use but is very strong. The brass feet are intact. It is embossed with initials 'L.W.'

The interior has a stunning green leather detail and features multiple compartments and a large internal well. The grooming accessories have faux tortoiseshell bakelite handles and are in good condition with some light crazing to some of them aswell as some rusting to the metal parts. There is a leather/velvet lined cufflink/jewellery box, a leather wallet with comb and page turner. A stunning folding mirror, nail buffer, dusting brush, shoehorn, button hook, 2 glove stretchers, 12 grooming articles. There are 7 glass bottles which are unfortunately missing their silver lids. One small jar is included but possibly not original to the case. There is damage to one compartment with a puncture hole (please see photo)

Measurements approx when closed:

27cm depth x 39cm width x 29cm height not including handle, it is also very heavy

Please view photos carefully as they form part of the description.

Please view my other listings as I am happy to combine postage.

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