A leather briefcase is a carrying device made, often in a rectangular form, used to protect and transport a range of items commonly including portfolios, papers, folders, documents, laptops, electronics, clothing, toiletries, and common personal accessories. Commonly, they are opened and closed using a zipper to securely hold in the contents while in transport and then easily access them for use.
Often they are associated with professional workers including attorneys, accountants, and business executives (those carrying lots of papers). Though with the evolution of the digital age and laptops and personal electronics being ubiquitous in the office across near-every industry, the leather briefcase has seen an increase in popularity.
Historically, briefcases were made of hard plastic, thin metal, or leather. Some were made of plastic or metal, and covered with a thin layer of leather. A favorite of mine, is a briefcase made fully of leather. They are light, stylish, and wear very well over time, often looking better with age and use.
Internally, these cases might have a multitude of pockets, pouches, and dividers. More can be handy if you have lots to carry and want to reach them easily.