This large, solidly built suitcase was designed and made specially to go inside a vintage car. It is an original item which has been in my family for many decades, and is believed to date from the 1930s. An almost identical example (though with the handle missing) is on display beside a 1923 Austin Seven at the British Motor Museum (see photos).

The suitcase is made of wood covered in a hard-wearing black textured fabric, and is lined with a light-coloured cotton-type material. The design is sturdy but stylish, with sloping sides and an elegant domed lid which made it perfect to fit inside the boot of a car.

The case comes complete with its original leather handle, which slides flat to save space inside the car. It has robust fittings in chrome metal, including two lockable catches (with key), plus hinges and corner reinforcements. There are also four studs on the base made of a tough rubber-type material to protect the case when standing on the ground.

The metal catches are stamped with the maker's mark and patent numbers (LK / PAT NOS 427897 455297 / D.R.C.M. & OTHERS / MADE IN ENGLAND).

The condition of the suitcase is generally good considering its age, but the covering fabric has many scuffs and has worn away in some places around the edges of the case (see photos). The leather handle is worn and there is some corrosion to the metal fittings. The inner lining is clean but discoloured with some staining due to age.

The suitcase measures approx. 79cm x 46cm at the base and 79cm x 28.5cm at the top, with a height of 25cm. It weighs 4.7g.

The last two photos show an identical suitcase (but with the handle missing) on display beside a 1923 Austin Seven at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire, the world’s largest collection of historic British cars.

Unfortunately the cost of postage is high to its size and weight, but the suitcase can be collected in person from South-West London.