English trunk
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The so-called English trunk (Malle Anglaise) is made of wicker and was invented in France around 1870 by the Maison Moynat. Taking its inspiration from the type of wooden chests common in England at the time, originally intended to transport linen and bedding, but also used for pique-niques, the trunk was invented in France as a means of getting around obligatory weight restrictions for luggage.
Histoire
This type of trunk first appeared around 1870. In some historical documents of the time it is referred to as a “basket” due to its wicker structure. Modeled on the style of English chests – which explains its more common name "the English trunk" – it is made up of a wicker frame covered first in leather then in a thick canvas making it waterproof. To ensure that it remained entirely waterproof, Moynat used a substance called Gutta-Percha to seal it.
The construction of this trunk called on the involvement of specialist basket-makers and leather craftsmen, who rarely worked together. The trunk was conceived as a solution for travellers who wished to get around the luggage restrictions in place on trains in France at the time. This extra light trunk (it weighed as little as 2 kg) was seen as an alternative to the heavier items of luggage made of cardboard or leather and as a convenient way of avoiding excess baggage fines. Gradually the use of wicker and sealed canvas replaced the use of leather, and the invention of the trunk was such a success that in many countries around the world wicker trunks are still known today as Moynat trunks.
References
- Chapel, Edmond, Le Caoutchouc et la Gutta-Percha, Ed. Marchal et Billard, 1892
- Espanet, Luisa, Valises & Compagnies, Genleman Editeur, 1987
- Le Figaro, 2 aout 1879
- Saverny, Marie (Marie d'Ajac), "La Femme hors de chez elle, en voyage, à la campagne", 1878