Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, Early 20th Century

The Louis Vuitton Monogram canvas is one of the most recognizable textiles in luxury brands. This trunk's canvas is a woven jacquard, the earliest form of the Monogram canvas that was developed by Georges Vuitton in 1896.

Stickers on the sides indicate that it was carried on the Cunard Cruise Line which was the rival and eventual owner of White Star Line, the company to which the H.M.S. Titanic belonged.

Label: I. Rue Scribe / Paris / Louis Vuitton / 149. New Bond St. / London
Style/Serial Number: N/A

Detailed Features
43.25" L x 22" H x 22.25" W
Main textile: Two-tone monogram linen canvas stretched over wood frame
Trim: Stained wood slats
Lining: White polished linen canvas
Hardware type: Brass metal
Handles: Dual side metal handles
External details: Front brass three latch closures, stained wood slats rivetted to each side, black painted metal edging and brass endcaps, and bottom metal wheels
Interior details: White polished linen canvas lined padded and quilted lid with white tape and brass tacks, built-in shelving brackets for removable tray
Additions: Removable canvas lined tray with web ribbon Louis Vuitton straps
Country of origin: N/A

The overall condition is good structurally with the following:

Split/Separated Seams:
There are a couple of broken twill tapes on the lid interior.

Losses:
Front leather strap is broken off. The back of the trunk has some areas on the bottom where the canvas has worn away or is thinning. The wood slats are intact but are scratched and with some indentations and small bits missing. The metal edging is pitted and misshapen due to heavy usage, though nothing that affects operation of the trunk.

Fading/Color Change:
The canvas exterior has darkened in various areas though it is darkest on the top of the lid. The interior lining has darkened around the sides of the lid, top and base of the bottom of the trunk.

Soiling/Spots:
The interior tray has a dark soiled spot in the bottom and along one end of the middle strap.

Corrosion/Tarnish:
The front leather strap has leather rot and the top buckle has detached but is maintained with the trunk. Everything is sold 'As Is'. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please contact us directly with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.