This Louis Vuitton wardrobe trunk was manufactured circa 1915 in Paris, France. Construction is wood covered with Louis Vuitton monogram pattern canvas; leather binding; and solid brass hardware; including lock, latches, corner bracing and trim. Wood slats are attached with signed LV brass nails. Interior is fabric and silk lined with five original drawers, wooden clothes hangers and clothes press. Trunk is marked with original owner's initials "K.S.M." and an original travel label with the name Jeremiah Milbank, and address "16 E. 67th St., New York, NY."

All indications are that this trunk was first owned by Katherine Schulze Milbank, wife of Jeremiah Milbank of New York City, New York. Jeremiah Milbank, 1887-1972, was the grandson of Jeremiah Milbank I of Greenwich, CT, a wholesale grocer who became the founder of the Borden Condensed Milk Company by financing Gail Borden's invention of the product prior to the Civil War. Jeremiah Milbank I became quite wealthy as a result of this business venture and he and his decedents went on to become leading philanthropists, as well as influential in politics and business. Jeremiah Milbank (the grandson) was married sometime around 1915 and had a son, who he named Jeremiah Milbank, Jr. Jeremiah Milbank, Jr. went on to become a well known philanthropist and close friend of President Hoover. He died in Charlottesville, VA at the age of 87 in August 2007. He is survived by two sons and two daughters. The Milbank family is listed in several literary sources as being one of the wealthiest families in America.

This trunk was appraised 3 years ago and is valued at $22,000-$24,000 based on provenance, with a retail value of $16,000-$18,000. It is in beautiful condition for it's age, with a stunning patina. One original handle is present but not attached, some drawer pulls are torn or missing. It is missing a few drawer dividers and the original key. Overall, a small price to pay for its impressive history and unmatched craftsmanship. This would make one gorgeous coffee table and a fantastic conversation piece.

1/1 Info:
All Quantity of One items are one of kind. Because of their vintage nature, exact size, color, condition, etc. vary from item to item. All Quantity of One items are sold "as-is" and are non-returnable.