An Edwardian Cream Leather Travelling Suitcase of Drew & Sons, Piccadilly Circus, London

Origin: English
Period: Early Twentieth Century
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1905-1914
Height: 9.5 inches (flat)
Width: 30.25 inches
Depth: 17 inches

Of Edwardian origin, the travelling case in buff cream hide and leather, the makers name Drew & Sons, Piccadilly Circus, London clearly found, badged to the underside lid amongst a sky blue pin stripe interior, the hide and leather having a beautiful evocative patina and lustrous natural shine. The handle, stitching, capped corners and studs are all sound, whilst the nickel-plated locks are still in working order. The only condition defects to note are the absence of interior strapping and part absence of the exterior tan leather strapping.

Legendary case makers Drew & Sons were based at number 33 Piccadilly Circus from 1887, until 1914, (thus dating this case) when they moved to premises in Regent Street. They also had premises at Leadenhall Street in London from 1888-1914 and also at Kings Road in Brighton from 1894. Samuel Summers Drew founded his firm around 1844. The company was best known for their bags and cases, picnic sets, trunks and other leather goods. The company were also listed as gold and silver workers. Samuel Summers Drew had either retired or died by January 15, 1914 and Ernest and John Summers Drew, his sons, took the business on. The firm became Ltd. in 1928 and it was in business at least into the mid 1930's.

More unusual being fashioned in ivory rather than tan, this splendid, roomy and functional case has a leisurely sophistication and suave charm; if it were to be personified it would be an Edwardian Leonardo Di Caprio kicking back with a pina colada by the pool in the Bahamas with Al Bowlly crooning in the distance, the vinyl spinning away laconically on the tin horn gramophone.