Cases
Leuchars London ® continues the tradition of case making associated with the historic firm founded in Piccadilly in 1794. The company became known for fitted dressing cases and travelling cases designed to contain personal instruments and accessories.
These cases were constructed to organise grooming tools, scent bottles, brushes and other personal objects used in private life and travel.
The Craft of Case Making
Case making was a specialised craft within the London luxury trades of the nineteenth century. Cases were designed to hold a complete set of instruments arranged within fitted interiors.
The interiors of the cases were divided into compartments lined with leather, velvet or silk so that each object had a dedicated place.
Silver mounted tools, glass scent bottles and other accessories were often supplied by specialist makers and fitted into the case during assembly.
Dressing Cases
Dressing cases were the most recognisable objects associated with the Leuchars name. These cases were designed to contain the instruments required for personal grooming.
A typical dressing case could include brushes, mirrors, scent bottles, shaving tools and other personal accessories arranged within a fitted interior.
Travelling Cases
Travelling cases were designed to allow personal grooming equipment to be carried during journeys. These portable cases contained the same types of fitted accessories found in dressing cases but were constructed to be more compact and practical for travel.
Travelling cases became increasingly common during the nineteenth century as international travel expanded.
Jewellery and Personal Cases
In addition to dressing cases, the Leuchars workshops produced cases intended for jewellery and other personal objects. These cases were designed to protect and organise valuable items during storage or travel.
Structure of a Fitted Case
A fitted case typically consisted of a rigid exterior shell and a carefully arranged interior. The interior was divided into compartments designed to hold specific instruments.
The case itself formed the framework that brought together a collection of tools and accessories into a single organised set.
The Leuchars Tradition
The Leuchars name became closely associated with the craft of case making in London during the nineteenth century. Dressing cases and travelling cases produced by the firm are now preserved in museum collections and the antique trade.
Leuchars London ® continues the traditions associated with this historic craft.
