Antique French Trunk in Damier Canvas from Louis Vuitton, 1900

Details

Description

A rare and highly desirable special-order louis vuitton damier trunk, dating to the early 20th century and retaining its original … Read more A rare and highly desirable special-order louis vuitton damier trunk, dating to the early 20th century and retaining its original painted monogram comprising the initials "lcl" surmounted by an aristocratic coronet. The trunk is further accompanied by a related louis vuitton leather travelling case engraved "marquis de chasseloup-laubat – paris – london – jockey club – to french embassy", strongly suggesting an association with the distinguished french noble family of chasseloup-laubat.

constructed in louis vuitton's iconic damier canvas with solid brass lock, catches and protective corner mounts, the trunk embodies the exceptional quality and craftsmanship that established the maison as the foremost maker of luxury luggage during the golden age of travel. The beautifully patinated wooden laths and brass fittings contrast elegantly with the damier canvas, while the painted monogram and coronet transform the piece from an already desirable vuitton trunk into an object of genuine historical interest and aristocratic provenance.

special-order trunks occupy a particularly important place within the louis vuitton canon. Commissioned for royalty, diplomats, industrialists and members of europe's aristocracy, such pieces were individually tailored to their owners' requirements and frequently bore painted initials, coats of arms, heraldic devices or coronets to facilitate identification during international travel. As with bespoke luggage commissioned by maharajahs, noble families and great society figures, these personalised details provide a fascinating insight into the lives and status of their original owners.

the present trunk's crowned initials lcl are especially intriguing when considered alongside the accompanying inscribed leather case. The chasseloup-laubat family was one of france's most eminent aristocratic dynasties, producing statesmen, military figures and prominent members of belle époque society. The references to paris, the london jockey club and the french embassy evoke the cosmopolitan world of grand hotels, diplomatic circles and cross-channel travel that characterised the european aristocracy during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

the interior survives in remarkably well-preserved condition, a testament to the quality of vuitton's construction and the care with which the trunk has been preserved. Such condition is increasingly uncommon, particularly in conjunction with original personalised decoration and compelling provenance.

more than simply a piece of luggage, this trunk is an evocative survival from the great era of luxury travel, recalling the age of railway saloons, ocean liners and the refined itineraries of europe's elite. Combining the enduring appeal of louis vuitton's damier canvas with aristocratic ownership and a fascinating historical narrative, it represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a special-order vuitton trunk of considerable rarity, character and collector appeal.

provenance: reputedly from the luggage suite of the marquis de chasseloup-laubat family and accompanied by a related louis vuitton leather travelling case engraved "marquis de chasseloup-laubat – paris – london – jockey club – to french embassy".

condition

in good antique condition - wear is consistent with age and use, displaying the honest wear expected of a trunk well over a century old. Please refer to the photographs.

size

height: 36 cm // 14.17 inches
width: 121 cm // 47.64 inches
depth: 54 cm // 21.26 inches this piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
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