Rare Gentleman's Top Hat Hatbox, Louis Vuitton

French, circa 1900, composed of Damier canvas bound and trimmed in brass tack glazed calf-skin, completed by its original stamped handle, and the original stamped brass lock (not functional and lacking key), cotton roping, and strap interior, the lid interior retains paper label "London/454 Strand (Trafalgar Sq. / Louis Vuitton / 1. Rue Scribe / Paris". The hatbox is currently securing a beaver felt top hat of London origin by Henry Heath Ltd.

14 1/8 x 14.25 x 12 in.

From the Richard & Patricia Ballard Collection, New Haven, CT

The beige and brown Damier print interspersed with "Marque L. Vuitton Repousse" was created in 1888, almost a decade before the famous monogram. This particular example is unusual for its rare form and remarkably sound condition, retaining a desirable original patina.

Overall dryness, cracking and some loss to leather trim; black scuffs likely shoe polish to front; wear expected with age and use.

$800 - 1,200