Louis Vuitton Trunks: A History of Luxury Travel
For over a century, Louis Vuitton has been synonymous with luxury and elegance in the world of fashion. But the brand's iconic status was first established through the creation of its signature travel trunks. From steamship voyages to the Orient Express, Louis Vuitton trunks have accompanied the elite and the adventurous alike on their journeys.
The story of Louis Vuitton trunks began in 1854, when a young Louis Vuitton arrived in Paris and began apprenticing with Monsieur Marechal, a trunk maker. Vuitton quickly distinguished himself with his innovative designs and quality craftsmanship. He soon set out on his own, establishing his own trunk-making workshop in 1858.
Vuitton's trunks were unlike any that had come before. They were lightweight, durable, and most importantly, featured a flat top that allowed for easy stacking. This was a significant innovation, as previously trunks had rounded tops that made them difficult to pack efficiently. Vuitton's flat-topped trunks quickly became popular with wealthy travellers, and the Louis Vuitton brand was born.
Gorgeous and most importantly complete, this early 20th century Louis Vuitton trunk was the must have item of any elite traveller. Covered in the world famous LV monogrammed canvas, with its leather trim and brass fitting it would have been the top of the line even at the time of purchase some 100 years ago. Oozing style and elegance this trunk makes for a fantastic conversation piece, a great size for a coffee table, side table or just as a standalone item suitable for any interior, both modern or traditional.
Reference Number: B9567d
Over the years, Louis Vuitton continued to innovate and improve upon his trunks. He added brass hardware to protect the corners and edges of the trunks, and introduced a range of sizes and shapes to meet the needs of different travellers. Vuitton also introduced a revolutionary lock system, featuring a single key that could open all of a travellers’ trunks.
As travel became more accessible in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Louis Vuitton trunks became an essential accessory for anyone embarking on a voyage. They were seen on steamships, trains, and in the luggage compartments of automobiles. Even famous explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Ernest Shackleton relied on Louis Vuitton trunks for their expeditions to the poles.
A beautiful and very rare shoe trunk by Louis Vuitton, covered in stencilled monogram canvas, lozine trim and brass fittings. Dating to the first half of the 20th century, this trunk is a must have item for any elite traveller harking back to times of passenger ships and 1st class travel of bygone eras. Complete with its original lift out trays, the brass fittings were top of the range at Louis Vuitton at the time and today it makes for a great conversation piece, a great size for a coffee table or side table suitable for any interior, both modern or traditional.
Reference Number: B9565
Today, Louis Vuitton trunks continue to be prized possessions for collectors and luxury travellers. While they may no longer be the most practical option for modern-day travel, they remain a symbol of the golden age of luxury travel. And while Louis Vuitton has expanded its product offerings far beyond trunks, the brand's heritage and legacy are still deeply rooted in the world of travel and adventure.
In conclusion, the story of Louis Vuitton trunks is one of innovation, craftsmanship, and a dedication to quality that has endured for over a century. As the world continues to evolve and travel becomes more accessible, the legacy of Louis Vuitton trunks will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.