Located in Beuzevillette, FR
Very fine late 19th century travel trunk in wood, brass, black coated canvas and interior fabric by A. Maille-Lavolaille.
This superb trunk bears a plate monogrammed "C.F & Cie Paris" and a second plate numbered 2.
The lock is inscribed "A. MAILLE-LAVOLAILLE" and "3 Rue Croix-des-Petits-Champs" are the name and Paris address of the manufacturer.
The signature on the lock is quite rare, making this model particularly interesting.
A goddess or gorgon is engraved on the top of the lock.
A label remains inside the trunk.
This extremely decorative, yet useful and historic trunk has very nice dimensions.
The trunk shows signs of wear due to its age and many travels, making it a wonderful witness to history.
Late 19th century - France
The Lavolaille firm, successor to Katz et Cie, was founded in 1845, specializing in trunks for sales representatives. Made of wood, with strong handles and straps, and with interior layouts that varied according to the object, they were the ancestors of the "marmotte".
Lavolaille would later join forces with A. Maille, another trunk manufacturer specialized in commercial travelers.
Most trunks are covered with black canvas, steel or brass edging and decorative upholstery nails on the top or front of the trunk.
Some trunks had nails signed "Lavolaille", like Louis Vuitton nails.
Category
Late 19th Century French Art Nouveau Antique Canvas Blanket Chests