A Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk in orange "Vuittonite" canvas, France, circa 1920
A Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk in orange "Vuittonite" canvas, France, circa 1920
Step into the realm of vintage luxury with this exceptionally rare wardrobe trunk from Louis Vuitton, hailing from the early 20th century, around 1900-1910. Draped in the distinctive orange "Vuittonite" canvas, this vertical trunk opens to reveal spacious hanging compartments on both sides, providing a charming blend of functionality and elegance. The rarity of trunks adorned with this unique finish, known for its stain and water-resistant properties, sets it apart from its more common monogrammed counterparts. Once a staple canvas for Vuitton's trunks from the turn of the century to the 1920s, the orange Vuittonite canvas has become a sought-after treasure for collectors, making this wardrobe trunk a unique and appreciated addition to any discerning collection. An exquisite focal point for interior decor, it not only tells the story of Louis Vuitton's historic craftsmanship but also stands as a testament to the enduring allure of vintage luxury.
A brief history about Louis Vuitton trunks: Louis Vuitton was born in 1821 to a farmer and milliner and came from a long-established working-class family in eastern France. Vuitton grew up understanding the effects of perseverance and a strong work ethic from watching his family. At the age of 16, he made the decision to walk 292 miles from his hometown to Paris to try and make a new life for himself. When he arrived the city was in the midst of industrialization with current modes of transportation evolving quickly allowing for longer journeys. With this came the need for sturdy travel pieces.
Vuitton was taken as an apprentice for a successful box maker and packer named Monsieur Marechal. He learned to craft durable containers and how to pack them properly – a well-respected profession at the time.In 1854, years after he had mastered his craft and became well respected for it, Vuitton ventured out on his own to open a shop on Rue Neuve des Capucines. It was here that he began to establish himself as a luggage maker. Then, in 1858, Vuitton designed the first Louis Vuitton steamer trunk. At the time trunks had rounded tops to allow for water to run off but this did not allow for convenient stowage. Vuitton introduced a flat, yet waterproof, trunk that was easily stackable. The first of his trunks were outfitted with a grey canvas referred to as Trianon – it wouldn’t be until several decades later that the signature monogram would be introduced.
With a burgeoning business, Vuitton moved his family and workplace to Asniere, where he employed twenty workers to craft his trunks. By 1900 he would have 100 employees, and in 1914 the company would more than double in size. After years of success, Vuitton began to experiment with the design of his luggage by introducing a new striped canvas pattern (1876) and later the still well-known Damier print (1888). The hand-painted patterns were developed to prevent counterfeits. Even in the late 1800s, Louis Vuitton was enough of a status symbol to warrant counterfeiting. In 1886, his son George invented and patented an ingenious locking system that made it impossible to pick the lock of their trunks. This lock is still used today.
1892 would prove to be a time of mourning for the family as Louis Vuitton passed away at the age of 70. His son, Georges Vuitton, became the new head of the luxury house. Louis Vuitton’s passing would prompt his son to once again change the print of their luggage, and in 1896, to honour his father, the signature LV monogram was introduced and patterned with LVs, quatrefoils, and flowers. Under his direction success followed and the iconic monogram rose to fame among elite clientele.
Condition: good overall unrestored vintage condition, minor scrapes in keeping with age, key lacking. Please refer to photographs.
Dimensions: 114cm high, 56cm wide, 56cm deep
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REFERENCE: H2376h