Louis Vuitton 1888–1900 Antique Damier Malle Courrier Trunk | Rare Early LV Travel Chest | Original Hardware & Initials T.M.

ARCHIVAL LOUIS VUITTON MASTERPIECE

THE 1888–1900 DAMIER “MALLE COURRIER” TRUNK

A Rare Pre-1900 Travel Relic of the Golden Age

A century-old Vuitton artefact preserved in original condition — built when travel meant steamships, porters, and aristocracy.

📜 DESCRIPTION

This museum-grade Louis Vuitton Damier “Malle Courrier” flat trunk dates to an extraordinary period between 1888 and 1900, the earliest generation of Damier canvas ever produced. Featuring its original checkerboard pattern, early hand-riveted hardware, and period-correct wood slats, this trunk embodies the golden era of French luxury travel.

The piece carries authentic age marks, patina, oxidation, and period stickers — all signs of genuine, pre-1900 world travel. The hand-painted initials “T.M.” reference its first owner, adding to its provenance and storytelling value. This is not a modern reproduction; this is a true archival artefact, over 120 years old, and increasingly difficult to find in any condition.

Collectors value early Damier trunks for their historical importance — produced before the Monogram canvas became LV’s signature. With Louis Vuitton continuously rising in the heritage-collectible market, trunks from the 19th century offer exceptional investment potential, placed alongside high-end furniture, gallery spaces, retail boutiques, and private collections.

Whether used as a statement coffee table, interior showpiece, luxury storage chest, or preserved as an investment artefact, this trunk is one of the strongest symbols of Vuitton’s artisanal legacy.

📏 SPECIFICATIONS

• Model: Malle Courrier (Flat Trunk)
• Series: 1888–1900 Production Era
• Material: Early Damier Canvas
• Hardware: Brass + Iron (period oxidation)
• Size: approx. H32.5 × W100 × D50.5 cm
• Initials: “T.M.” (Original Owner Marking)
• Inclusions: Repair Certificate, Key
• Condition Rank: B — usable condition with authentic historical patina

🧭 ITEM SPECIFICS & CONDITION REPORT

Exterior:

• Exterior:
  • Damier canvas with significant period wear (scratches, marks, fading)
  • Wood slats show age-darkening and slight distortions
  • Hardware exhibits oxidation and rust consistent with 120+ years of age
  • Remnants of vintage hotel labels
  • Original owner initials “T.M.” visible
• Interior:
  • Interior fabric shows staining and expected antique use
  • No foul odor; carries natural 19th-century antique scent
• Overall: A true antique exhibiting authentic historical wear consistent with global travel from the 19th to early 20th century. Structural integrity remains excellent for its age.
• Extremely rare pre-1900 Damier trunk
• Features early Damier canvas before Monogram became dominant
• Antique LV trunks appreciate annually due to collector scarcity
• High demand in interior design as coffee tables, décor, and display art
• Strong provenance with original owner initials
• Highly investable as a fashion × art × history crossover

At Japonista, we take pride in offering only carefully curated, original, and authentic pieces. Every item we list is examined, researched, and backed by our full authenticity guarantee—so you may buy with complete confidence.

Some of our pieces may allow a little room for negotiation, while others hold firm due to rarity, condition, or collector value. On a case-by-case basis, we do entertain best offers, and we welcome you to submit one if you have a particular figure in mind. We review all offers seriously and personally.

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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.