Bertha Palmer's Louis Vuitton Trunk, Late 19th Century

This trunk features the Initials "PP" likely for Pauline Palmer, with a second set of initials visible underneath that read "BMHP" for Pauline's mother-in-law, Bertha Matilde Honore Palmer. The two sets of initials suggest that the trunks were originally made for Bertha Palmer, who likely used them for her international travels, including for her work at the Paris Exposition of 1900. Following Bertha Palmer's death in 1918, it is believed that Pauline Palmer took possession of this and other trunks and had her initials painted over her mother-in-laws. The Chicago History Museum's fashion collection contains other examples of items from Bertha Palmer that were "resued" by subsequent generations of her family.

Late 19th century steamer trunk in LV monogram printed canvas, with metal frame/sides, hardware, and handles, with fittings for a leather strap (now missing), and four non-functioning wheels on the base. The bottom section of the trunk is metal. The interior is lined in ivory canvas, with one removable tray and the inner lid is studded with ribbon taping. There are several travel stickers on each of the handle sides.
Trunk Label (inside lid): I. Rue Scribe / Paris / Louis Vuitton / 149, New Bond Street / London
Serial Number: 128741

Stamping on Center Front Lock
149 New Bond Street Lonon / Made in France / 70 Champs Elysees / Paris
Serial Number: 047479

Label on Tray Insert, Woven into Straps: The Field Trunk / Marshall Field & Company / Chicago

Approximate Measurements:
Length: 29.5"
Height: 20"
Width: 17"

Condition:

The overall condition is fair with signifigant wear. The structure is sold and the case is usable, but it is clearly a case that has been used for decades. The leather strap is missing that would have gone around the trunk for locking. The leather straps that remain on the trunk are dry. The exterior of the case has marks throughout.
There is a substantial dent in the back left of the trunk, possibly from the trunk being dropped.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email [email protected] with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

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Please contact the Auction Specialist for details.

Timothy Long

Director, Senior Specialist, Couture & Luxury Accessories

[email protected]312.334.4222

Mr. Long has nearly 20 years of experience as a curator of fashion and decorative arts in museums including the Museum of London, the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and the Chicago History Museum. At Hindman, he works with individual clients, collectors, dealers, and museums to bring to auction collections of couture and luxury accessories. Mr. Long’s recent publications include Charles James: Designer in Detail and a chapter on the same designer in London Couture: British Luxury 1923–1975, both published by V&A Publishing.

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Bertha Palmer's Louis Vuitton Trunk, Late 19th Century

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

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Bertha Palmer's Louis Vuitton Trunk, Late 19th Century

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