Fine Art & Design
Wed, Dec 10, 2025 12:00PM EST
Lot 170
Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk
Estimate: $6,000 - $9,000
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $5 |
| $50 | $10 |
| $250 | $25 |
| $1,000 | $50 |
| $2,000 | $100 |
| $4,000 | $250 |
| $10,000 | $500 |
| $20,000 | $1,000 |
| $50,000 | $2,500 |
| $100,000 | $5,000 |
| $500,000 | $10,000 |
Includes three inserts
Dimensions: 27"T x 43"W x 24"D
Number: 154649
Condition: Wear and scuffing throughout are consistent with age and use. Areas of surface loss to the leather trim and oxidation to the hardware. Approximately 1" x 1" puncture at the top as seen in the photo. White surface scratches are visible. One leather side handle is missing. Interior shows light discoloration and wear.
History:
Louis Vuitton introduced the steamer trunk in 1858, during the rise of long-distance rail and ocean travel. Designed by Louis Vuitton in Paris, the trunk departed from traditional domed luggage by using a flat, stackable top, making it practical for steamer ships and rail cabins. Early examples featured lightweight poplar framing, canvas exteriors, and reinforced brass hardware, reflecting Vuitton’s focus on durable, travel-ready construction. Over time, the trunk evolved to include the iconic monogram canvas (introduced in 1896), zinc or copper bindings, and specialized interiors tailored for garments, personal effects, or specific travel needs. The steamer trunk became a signature object of the late 19th and early 20th-century luxury travel era, aligning with the craftsmanship traditions seen in other historic French trunk makers such as Goyard and Moynat. Louis Vuitton’s trunk line remains closely associated with the Golden Age of Travel and the company’s origins as a Parisian malletier.
Available payment options
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