PARIS.- Following the tremendous success of Legendary Trunks: A European Private Collection in July 2024 - which achieved 2.4 million euros, twice its high estimation - Christie’s is delighted to continue the journey with the second part of this exceptional collection. Running online from June 19 to July 1, Legendary Trunks – Part II offers a new voyage into the heart of the Louis Vuitton universe, with around 100 lots that once again highlight the ingenuity, rarity and timeless elegance of the luxury trunks which have made the Maison a legend since the late 19th century. From the 36-pair shoe trunk to the trunk bed and classic cabin trunks, each piece illustrates in its own way the craftsmanship and innovation of the most famous malletier in the history of travel. These rare, perfectly preserved pieces appeal to collectors as much as they do to design and interior decoration enthusiasts, confirming the market’s fascination for these objects that embody the very essence of luxury and the art of travel.
The overall estimate for this second edition is between €600,000 and €900,000.
“Louis Vuitton trunks appeal to a wide range of buyers, both collectors to design aficionados looking for distinctive objects for homes and hotels. Their allure lies in their history, their ability to evoke different eras, and their patina, which is particularly prized on the secondary market. While their function has evolved, there remains a strong demand for them - both for their original purpose and for their place in contemporary lifestyles.” --- Lucile Andreani, EMEA Head of Department for Handbags at Christie’s
Among the highlights of the sale are two explorer trunks that bear witness to Louis Vuitton’s technical excellence and pioneering spirit. Designed at the end of the 19th century, these trunks are made of aluminum, zinc, and copper – materials that offer exceptional resistance to the most extreme climates. Combining strength and sophistication, these elegant, functional pieces were essential companions of adventurers with a taste for travel (from €40,000 to €60,000 each.)
A rare secretary desk trunk likely belonged to Louise Arner Boyd, the renowned American explorer and first woman to fly over the North Pole. Notable for its Monogram canvas, solid brass hardware, lozine and leather finishes, numerous drawers, compartments, and baskets - and of course, its signature folding desktop – this exceptional trunk is estimated at €10,000-€15,000.
The ‘tailor-made’ spirit is also embodied in an ingenious cigar case crafted in Monogram canvas with sliding drawers, lined with microfiber for optimal preservation. Combining sporty functionality with elegance, a golf trunk in Damier checkerboard canvas demonstrates Louis Vuitton’s ability to apply its savoir-faire in ever more unexpected domains. Likely a special commission, a rare military trunk bed bearing the initials J. T., made of green-painted wood with brass and black-lacquered iron fittings, is estimated at €8,000-€10,000.
Finally, a trunk known as the Lily Pons – named after the celebrated French-American opera singer famed for her performances at the Met in New York, at the war front with Marlene Dietrich, and especially for her appearance on the balcony of the Palais Garnier on May 8, 1945 – was designed in 1920 to hold up to 36 pairs of shoes. Presented last June, this model achieved a remarkable price of €52,920 against an initial estimate of €15,000 to €20,000.
A preview exhibition of these exceptional pieces will be held from June 21 to 26 at Christie’s, 9 avenue Matignon, Paris VIII, featuring a dedicated scenography.
