A Louis Vuitton Monogram Hat Trunk, Second Quarter 20th Century

Coated canvas with embossed leather trim, with painted monogram "R.R. McC" on front, for Robert Rutherford McCormick (1880-1955).  The interior with tray insert and paper label affixed to corner of lid inscribed "Louis Vuitton/ Paris 70 Champs Elysees/ 149 New Bond St. London/ Nice 2 Jardin Abert/ Vichy Rue du Parc" and stamped with serial number "815638".  Together with a signed photographic portrait of Robert McCormick in his army uniform.

Dimensions: 19 1/2 in. square, 9 1/4 in. high

Provenance: Robert Rutherford McCormick (1880-1955); Thence by descent in the family of his first wife, Amy Irwin McCormick (1880-1939); From a Bucks County estate.

Robert Rutherford McCormick (1880-1955) was born into the Chicago industrialist family and owners of the Chicago Tribune.  Known as "Bertie," he attended Yale and, later, the Northwestern University School of Law.  McCormick took control of the Tribune in 1910 and went to Europe in 1915 as a war correspondent for the paper.  He later served the United States as a colonel, received a Distinguished Service Medal, and was referred to as "Colonel McCormick" thereafter.  He was married twice but remained childless.  He was known for his soldierly baring, aristocratic air, and tireless work ethic.  He died in 1955 and was buried on his farm, Cantigny, in his war uniform.

Lacking key.  In good condition with wear consistent with age and travel use, including scratches, rubbing, and fading to monogram decoration.  .  The lock plate inscribed "Louis Vuitton Made in France" and numbered "H7"  The interior in good condition with minor stains.