A magnificent and exceptionally rare Louis Vuitton shoe trunk, adorned with stencilled monogram canvas, lozine trim and brass fittings. Elevating its uniqueness is the remarkably uncommon size that distinguishes it from standard models. This extraordinary piece measures an impressive 90cm in length, an astounding 50% wider than the already scarce shoe trunks typically encountered. Dating back to the first half of the 20th century, this trunk was an indispensable possession for discerning elite travellers, evoking the grandeur of passenger ships and the first-class luxury of bygone eras.

Designed with the utmost attention to detail, this rare find is equipped with its original lift-out trays, showcasing the timeless craftsmanship that has come to define Louis Vuitton's legacy. The brass fittings, considered top-of-the-range during the trunk's creation, serve as a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence. Today, this trunk transcends its historical origins to become a captivating conversation piece, perfectly suited as a sizeable coffee table or side table for any interior setting, be it modern or traditional.

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 vintage condition, minor scrapes in keeping with age, key lacking. Please refer to photographs.

Dimensions: 50cm high, 90cm wide, 39cm deep