Silk Trunks and Luggage

We are delighted to offer for sale this conservation-restoration circa 1900 extra large Louis Vuitton Paris Malle Haute steamer trunk with full monogrammed canvas Where to begin…… I purchased this trunk from a French arms and militaria dealer who I met in Belgium whilst visiting the Chateu De Deulin for an exquisite exhibition. The trunk had been brought from Paris by the dealer to sell at a fine antiques fair. The second I saw it I had to buy it, when do you have the chance to purchase such an iconic and stylish piece of late 19th century travel luggage made by the worlds greatest and most reputable luggage manufacturer Louis Vuitton… never! The trunk was in the normal condition which is to say poor, thus began the dilemma regarding restoration. There are many (smaller versions) of these trunks that come up for sale and they are all restored with the same paint brush which is to say in the same way, the dealers will strip back and polish up all the brass work so it looks brand new, they will paint all the metal work black so it makes the brass gleam even more, they basically try to make something that shouldn’t look new, look new. So, my dilemma was do I follow the same route, the quote I was given for the work was not insubstantial, or do I find a conservation restorer who would keep all the originally of the piece but make it clean, tidy, safe and presentable. I chose the latter, in walks the wonder that is Martin Ashford. Martin’s work is world famous, you may know him from the show Salvage Hunters the restorers, he is without doubt the finest (and most ingenious) fabric restorer I have ever encountered. Martin worked the trunk right back to the frame, he has worm and damp treated the carcass on the inside and out, it is now 100% clean, sterile and safe to use for another 120+ years. The timber has been expertly cleaned so as to not remove any of the original patina, it has then been waxed and polished. The Louis Vuitton monogram material...

Terrific leather case made to hold a top hat, with original red quilted silk lining to the interior and labels for the prestigious hatters Johnson and Co. of Regent Street, London; c...

1950s tan leather travel vanity by Mark across. The smaller case folds flat into the large case. Includes original glass bottles and jars. Removable easel back mirror. Lined in blush...

An excellent example of a case made of vellum with nickel-plated fittings and original silk lining. Also has embossed initials C.G.P., circa 1920. Dimensions: 26.7cm/10.5 inches (he...

An excellent example of a suitcase made of vellum with nickel plated fittings, original key and original silk lining. Also has embossed initials B.N.S. Circa 1920. Dimensions: 21cm/...

Impressive pair of French Campaign style leather hat trunks or steamer trunks. Amazing craftsmanship and detail with handles on each side. Brass strapping, lock plates and brass tack...

Late 19th century Louis Vuitton striped canvas steamer trunk with multiple storage compartments. Not only is this late 19th century Louis Vuitton steamer trunk a functional piece of storage, it is also the perfect decorative accessory whether it's used by itself or stacked. They are being re-purposed and used as a coffee table, living room end table, console, entry table, bedroom night stand, or placed at the foot of the bed. The LV steamer...

A fabulous Rowe of Bond street, London, black silk top hat, by appointment to Her Majesty Queen Mary, also stamped Christys' London, in a moire silk lined...

Intricately Embroidered Silk with Seed Pearls , White Crystals and Tasseled Strap.Silk Coin Purse and Signed Comb are included in this stunning purse.

This incredable vintage alligator hide large bag from the Edwardian era is a perfect stage prop for magazines or papers. Impractical to use as a carry all or bag its weight and age...

A Goyard leather bound trunk with signature canvas overall and with makers label and Paris address. The silk lined interior fitted with tray and having...