Provenance:
The monogram on this trunk is for Julian Day (1878-1947), the brother of author and founder of the Yale University Press Clarence Day (1874-1935). Julian and his wife Isabel Curtis emigrated from America to the UK around 1910 with the trunk in this lot. Day, originally a stockbroker, joined the British Army in World War I, serving in Gallipoli and Palestine earning him both the Military Cross and the Order Of The Nile.
Lots 688-690 in this auction are the contents of this trunk, including Isabel Curtis' wedding dress.
History of the Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk:
Louis Vuitton established his luxury luggage business in Paris in 1854, revolutionising the market by incorporating weatherproof canvas and a flat top on his trunks, as opposed to the domed leather lids on rivals' examples. This innovative design meant the trunks could be stacked and transpoted with ease and quickly became a staple for the rich and influential travellers of the day. With its patented Tumbler lock system (tested by Houdini at the request of Louis' son George Vuitton), it offered a secure, high quality and timeless option that still appeals to collector's today.
Condition Report:
Signs of wear throughout as expected due to age and use. Age and degradation to the metals work including oxidisation. Leather strap to the front is broken but all parts are present.
Marks and scuffs across all sides. Cover hinges are functioning. Lock functioning.
Interior with small stains and lining has come away on one corner of the lid. One divider is missing from one removable lining box.
