Exceptional Louis Vuitton trunk c.1904

Exceptional Louis Vuitton courier trunk dating from 1904, covered with the rare woven jacquard canvas, produced by the Maison only between 1896 and 1904.

This piece stands out for its outstanding state of preservation, having retained its original protective cover — an extremely rare feature for a trunk of this period. The presence of this cover reflects the exceptional care its first owner took with her luggage and explains the remarkable condition of this example, considered one of the most delicate and rarest models ever produced by Louis Vuitton.

Thanks to this protection, the jacquard woven canvas has never been exposed to light and has therefore retained its crisp texture and original color since 1904. The interior is also perfectly preserved, featuring its three original trays, designed for organized clothing storage, along with the original padded lining and interior fabric, both intact.

The original ribbons, attached to the trays, were used to keep dresses separated and perfectly in place during travel. These small attachments, often seen in other trunks of the period, had never been documented in active use before this discovery. They ensured a precise cross-hold system, maintaining the garments’ shape throughout transport.

A handwritten note from the client to her lady’s maid was found inside, listing the outfits to be packed for an upcoming journey — a rare and intimate glimpse into the daily life of an elegant traveler of the early 20th century. The original key is also preserved, a charming detail but secondary compared to the many other exceptional features of this trunk.

On the exterior, the trunk is covered in jacquard woven canvas of exceptional freshness, framed by steel borders with a superb patina. The red-painted initials on the sides, along with a red star likely representing a family emblem, add a personal touch. The cover bears a different initial, probably belonging to her husband, suggesting a shared or temporary use during travel.

In excellent condition, this trunk ranks among the finest surviving examples from the jacquard period. Its canvas, structure, and steel reinforcements have withstood more than a century in extraordinary condition, making it a unique testament to Louis Vuitton’s craftsmanship and history.

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.