Accession numberPRHM-0483MeasurementsH280 x W450 x D280mmHistoryThe Gladstone bag was designed in the late 19th century by J. G. Beard and named after British Prime Minister William Gladstone. It is made with stiff leather on a distinctive rigid frame that locks open with a wide opening. Originally it was the bag of choice for professionals including doctors and salesmen, but in Australia it became the typical working-man’s bag for much of the twentieth century. Usually made of stiff cowhide leather, the Gladstone bag is often embossed with the patterns of exotic skins like alligator or even walrus!