Iconic Logo and Unique bags
The Louis Vuitton brand comes from France and is the story of unique craftsmanship, timeless design, keen business acumen and an iconic logo. The fashion house was founded in the mid-1800s by Frenchman Louis Vuitton Malletier (1821-1892), who, as a 16-year-old, took a landmark decision. He wanted to become a luggage maker! He walked the 400 kilometres from his hometown in eastern France to Paris, where he was taken on at Monsieur Maréchal’s prominent workshop.
Trunks and Suitcases for the Court
The means of transport in those days – horse-drawn carriages, ships and trains – demanded that a suitcase or trunk was robust enough to protect its owner’s belongings during an oftentimes bumpy journey. Vuitton mastered the craft to the fullest, rapidly rose through the ranks and soon became one of Paris' most popular luggage makers. His good reputation came to the attention of the French court, and Napoleon III’s wife, Empress Eugénie, placed a prominent order. She needed some trunks that were easy to stack and designed in such a way that her clothes would not become creased. Louis Vuitton began production of flat suitcases in rainproof canvas with a shape suited to a ship’s hold, etc.
Louis Vuitton's Famous Monogram
In 1854, Louis Vuitton opened his own workshop on Rue Neuve-des-Capucines in Paris. To prevent others from copying the fashion house’s products, the famous LV monogram saw the light of day in 1896. And that was the beginning of a major international business empire. Today, Louis Vuitton is one of the world’s most prestigious brands, whose bags, purses, suitcases and trunks are the epitome of luxury.
At auction you can often find a large selection of vintage bags and suitcases from Louis Vuitton.
