Louis Vuitton cabin trunk c.1890

Adorable small Louis Vuitton cabin trunk dating from the 1880s, protected by moresque-patterned steel borders and covered with the iconic striped Louis Vuitton canvas — the Maison’s first patterned material, typical of the late 19th century.

Introduced in 1872, this canvas was created to combat counterfeiting, already widespread since the 1860s, and marked the birth of the very first true luxury trunk. It combined an elegant design, noble materials, an innovative locking system, and a refined yet functional aesthetic, establishing the foundation of Louis Vuitton’s enduring success.

This cabin-size model follows the standard height of first-class berths used on transatlantic liners of the period. Measuring just 33 cm in height, it was designed to slide easily under the bed, accompanying the traveler throughout the voyage — a format that perfectly embodies practical elegance and the art of travel in the French tradition.

The trunk is fitted with a brass lock stamped Louis Vuitton, and remarkably, still retains its original key — a rare feature for a piece of this age. The interior, lined with cotton canvas and quilted padding, also preserves the original Louis Vuitton label from the period, listing the awards received by the Maison at the Paris and Le Havre Universal Exhibitions.

In very good overall condition, the trunk shows a beautiful patina on the metal trim, a well-preserved exterior canvas, and a clean, complete interior, retaining all the charm and elegance of Louis Vuitton’s earliest creations.

EXCLUSIVELY IN LOS ANGELES

This trunk is currently available exclusively at Maxfield in Los Angeles, where you are warmly invited to view it on Melrose Avenue.