Louis Vuitton Antique Oversized Trunk – Hand-Painted Flag & Handwritten Markings, 1920s – Monogram Canvas (Extra Large)

A historically significant Louis Vuitton trunk preserved with original hand-painted Japanese insignia and 1920s handwritten markings.

From the golden age of world travel emerges a Louis Vuitton artifact steeped in culture, history, and lived experience. This 1920s oversized monogram trunk, adorned with original hand-painted Japanese insignia and handwritten markings, stands as a rare surviving example of pre-war international travel—its surface carrying the stories of journeys across continents.

A commanding collector’s trunk with powerful presence.

🧡 DESCRIPTION

This Louis Vuitton Antique Oversized Trunk is an exceptional relic from the 1920s, crafted during the period when Louis Vuitton trunks were the pinnacle of global travel gear. Measuring an impressive 81 cm in width and 48 cm in height, it is one of the largest sizes produced at the time—intended for long voyages by sea, rail, and early aviation.

What makes this particular trunk profoundly rare is the hand-painted Japanese flag and handwritten inscriptions found on the exterior. Unlike printed labels or stickers, these markings appear to have been applied manually during its active use nearly a century ago, offering a direct window into the personal journey of its original owner. Such genuine, untouched markings are seldom found today due to heavy repainting or surface restoration in modern times.

Although many antique LV trunks arrive from overseas, trunks preserved within Japan since the pre-war era—with original markings intact—are extremely scarce. This piece has been carefully kept over generations, retaining a unique patina, material aging, and historic atmosphere that collectors deeply value.

Despite its age, the monogram canvas retains clarity, and the trunk presents a dignified aesthetic with the textured, time-worn character expected of authentic 1920s pieces. The hand-painted flag alone elevates this trunk into a category of high cultural significance, suited for museums, luxury interiors, and serious archival collections.

This is not merely luggage.
This is a historical object, a decorative centerpiece, and a rare Louis Vuitton artifact that continues to appreciate in both rarity and value.

✨ HIGHLIGHTS & FEATURES

• Authentic Louis Vuitton oversized antique monogram trunk from the 1920s.

• Original hand-painted Japanese flag on exterior panel.

• Handwritten period markings preserved beneath the patina.

• Extra-large size ideal for display, décor, or archival preservation.

• Beautifully aged monogram canvas with historical atmosphere.

• Hardware, canvas, and leather components showing century-old wear.

• Extremely scarce example sourced from longstanding domestic ownership.

• A museum-quality Louis Vuitton travel artifact.

📐 ITEM DETAILS

Category: Antique Oversized Trunk
Era: 1920s
Material: Monogram Canvas, Wood, Leather Handle, Brass Hardware
Color: Brown Monogram
Dimensions:

• Height: 48 cm

• Width: 81 cm

• Depth: 22 cm
  Weight: Not specified (estimated 6–8 kg raw)
  Special Features: Hand-painted flag, handwritten inscriptions
  Condition Rank: Vintage Grade 3 (100-year-old item with visible age wear)
  Keys: Not included

🧼 CONDITION REPORT

• Approximately 100 years old; visible usage wear expected.

• Canvas: Scuffs, scratches, stains, rubbing, and age discoloration.

• Leather Trim: Cracking, dryness, abrasions.

• Hardware: Oxidation, scratches, color change.

• Interior: Age wear, stains, storage marks.

• Handle: Aged leather, weakened due to age.

• Structure: Solid for display; minor warping consistent with antique trunks.

• Paintwork: Original hand-painting intact; historically significant.

Notable for its preserved authenticity rather than restoration.

🌍 WHY COLLECTORS WANT THIS PIECE

• Historical Louis Vuitton artifact with verified pre-war surface markings.

• Hand-painted insignia dramatically increases collectible importance.

• Oversized trunks from this era are highly sought-after for interior styling.

• Perfect centerpiece for luxury homes, studios, hotel lobbies, or boutiques.

• Strong long-term investment value due to exceptional provenance.

• Japanese domestic-origin trunks with untouched patina are especially rare.

🏛 THE TRUNKMAKING LEGACY

Louis Vuitton’s legacy began with trunks—objects of innovation, luxury, and craftsmanship. This antique piece represents the earliest roots of the maison, embodying the purpose for which the brand was founded: to create world-class travel cases built to endure long voyages.

This trunk, with its preserved markings, stands as a living document of international travel nearly a century ago—a collectible of immense historical and cultural value.

💎Looking to secure this piece today?

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Thank you for choosing Japonista. We are honored to share these extraordinary treasures of Japan with you, from our heart to your doorstep.