Sold for $4,725

Sold prices are inclusive of Buyer’s Premium

Lot Description

Bertha Palmer's Louis Vuitton Trunk, Late 19th Century

This trunk features the Initials "PP" likely for Pauline Palmer, with a second set of initials visible underneath that read "BMHP" for Pauline's mother-in-law, Bertha Matilde Honore Palmer. The two sets of initials suggest that the trunks were originally made for Bertha Palmer, who likely used them for her international travels, including for her work at the Paris Exposition of 1900. Following Bertha Palmer's death in 1918, it is believed that Pauline Palmer took possession of this and other trunks and had her initials painted over her mother-in-laws. The Chicago History Museum's fashion collection contains other examples of items from Bertha Palmer that were "resued" by subsequent generations of her family.

Late 19th century steamer trunk in LV monogram printed canvas, with metal frame/sides, hardware, and handles, with fittings for a leather strap (now missing), and four non-functioning wheels on the base. The bottom section of the trunk is metal. The interior is lined in ivory canvas, with one removable tray and the inner lid is studded with ribbon taping. There are several travel stickers on each of the handle sides.
Trunk Label (inside lid): I. Rue Scribe / Paris / Louis Vuitton / 149, New Bond Street / London
Serial Number: 128741

Stamping on Center Front Lock
149 New Bond Street Lonon / Made in France / 70 Champs Elysees / Paris
Serial Number: 047479

Label on Tray Insert, Woven into Straps: The Field Trunk / Marshall Field & Company / Chicago

Approximate Measurements:
Length: 29.5"
Height: 20"
Width: 17"

Condition Report

Condition:

The overall condition is fair with signifigant wear. The structure is sold and the case is usable, but it is clearly a case that has been used for decades. The leather strap is missing that would have gone around the trunk for locking. The leather straps that remain on the trunk are dry. The exterior of the case has marks throughout.
There is a substantial dent in the back left of the trunk, possibly from the trunk being dropped.

Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email [email protected] with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Hindman website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Hindman.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.