Description
This Louis Vuitton shoe case, dating from 1910 to 1930, exemplifies the brand’s innovative craftsmanship. It features hand-painted canvas monogram, solid brass hardware, and reinforced corners adorned with embossed lozine trim, showcasing interlocking L and V initials, quatrefoils, and flowers against a rich brown backdrop.
The case is equipped with three brass clasps, including a v-lock center clasp engraved with a serial number and marked “70 Champs Elysees, Paris.” The interior features an original lift-out tray with handles, providing six felt-lined compartments positioned above six additional felt compartments for custom organization of up to 12 pairs of shoes. Each compartment is equipped with thick felt straps for protection and adjustable dividers for tailored organization (dimension of each compartment: H=2.75 in., W=4.5 in., D=15.5 in.).
Complete with a v-lock center clasp, comes with two keys for a working lock, and historic stickers, including references to Charlotte Whitney Allen, a prominent social figure in early 20th century Rochester, this piece connects buyers to a rich narrative of cultural and travel history.
Historic baggage tags, name tags, and itinerary stickers enhance the shoe case’s appeal. One of the three Cunard Line stickers references Charlotte Whitney Allen’s husband, Atkinson Allen (1886–1957). The canvas also displays her initials ‘C.W.A.’. Born in 1891 and raised during the Gilded Age, Charlotte Whitney Allen (1891–1978) emerged as a prominent figure in Rochester, New York’s social and cultural circles. Throughout her life, she became a dedicated supporter of the arts, ultimately donating her home to the Memorial Art Gallery of Rochester, NY, reflecting her commitment to enriching the community’s cultural landscape.
Additional stickers include those from the transatlantic ship Aquitania, a White Star Line sticker indicating first-class status, and a South Eastern Railway sticker detailing travel from Paris to Londres, with “Via Calais-Douv…” specifying the route to Calais before ferrying to Dover.
The early 20th century marked a significant era in luxury travel, characterized by the rise of opulent railroad journeys and transatlantic voyages making this case a captivating piece of design history.
Case Dimensions: H=17 in. W=30 in. D=8.5 in. 45 lbs.
*This piece is part of a unique set of three and can be sold separately. However, owning the complete set allows you to be the exclusive collector of its remarkable history. *
