A woven monogram canvas hat trunk by Louis Vuitton, France, circa 1896
A woven monogram canvas hat trunk by Louis Vuitton, France, circa 1896
A rare and exceptionally early Louis Vuitton hat trunk, France, circa 1896, covered in the first version of the house’s celebrated Monogram canvas.
Of upright rectangular form, the trunk is covered in the early woven Monogram canvas, in which the interlocking LV initials and floral motifs are woven directly into the fabric rather than applied to its surface. The exterior is reinforced with leather-bound edges and fitted with brass studs, corner protectors, clasps, central lock and carrying handles.
The hinged top opens to reveal the original cream-coloured lining and Louis Vuitton label, while the front opens to reveal the fitted hat-trunk interior, including its removable latticework frame designed to hold and protect hats during travel.
Of particular importance is the trunk’s woven monogram canvas. Introduced in 1896 by Georges Vuitton in tribute to his father, Louis Vuitton, this was the earliest form of the now iconic monogram design. Unlike the better-known later canvas, on which the Monogram pattern was stencilled or printed onto the surface, these earliest examples incorporated the design directly into the weave of the canvas. This technically elaborate woven version was produced only for a short period, from approximately 1896 until around 1900, before being superseded by the more practical stencilled monogram canvas. Its brief production makes surviving examples particularly scarce and places this trunk among the earliest generation of Louis Vuitton monogram luggage
Condition: in good antique condition with extensive wear, rubbing, marks and losses consistent with approximately 130 years of age and use. The woven canvas, leather and brass fittings display a rich, naturally developed patina, with wear and staining to the original interior lining commensurate with age. Please refer to photographs.
Dimensions: 61cm wide, 43cm deep, 53cm high
For additional information please contact us:
Email: info@alessiolorenzi.com
Phone: +44 7701 088 288
REFERENCE: G2631