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Hindman’s March 19 Couture Auction Surpasses Expectations

By Art Daily

Published on Mar 23, 20

Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunk, 19th Century. Late 19th century steamer trunk in Damier canvas, bound in wood slats and black painted metal hardware, metal handles, the monogram “B” set inside a diamond shape on either end, with fittings for a leather strap on the front, mounted on metal casters. The interior lined in ivory canvas, with lower removable tray and the lid is studded with pink ribbon taping and lined in ivory ticking. There are several travel stickers on each of the handle sides. Label: Louis Vuitton / No 39048 / “Medaille D’or _ Paris 1889”. Estimate: $1,500 – $2,500. Sold for: $4,000.

CHICAGO, IL.-Hindman’s March 19 online Spring Fashion and Accessories auction was a strong start to the Couture Department’s 2020 auction schedule, with a total price realized surpassing the low estimate and active bidding from over 700 registered bidders. The sale included nearly 300 lots of women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, ranging from the early 20th century to 2018, from private collections and museums around the United States. Items by notable designers such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès led the sale, surpassing presale expectations due to competitive bidding from three online platforms and absentee bidders.

The sale was conducted remotely, allowing for both live internet bidding and absentee bidding. “We are very pleased that we were able to conduct a successful sale and serve the needs of both consignors and buyers. Today’s technology has allowed this market to stay open during these unprecedented circumstances,” said Jim Sharp, Hindman’s Director of Expertise.

The selection of Chanel designs was led by a Chanel denim shoulder bag with embroidery and appliqué, which sold for over double its presale estimate of $600- $800, realizing $2,000. Other highlights by the brand include a Chanel faux pearl and black bead necklace with flowers, which realized $1,188, surpassing its presale estimate of $400 – $600, and a Chanel black velvet skirt, which sold for $1,125 against a presale estimate of $600- $800. The total sell-through rate for Chanel property was an impressive 99%.

Highlights from the Louis Vuitton and Hermès segments include a 19th Century Louis Vuitton steamer trunk that realized $4,000 against a presale estimate of $1,500- $2,500, a 1890-1900s Louis Vuitton trunk, which realized $5,888 against a presale estimate of $2,000 – $3,000 and an Hermès brown leather bag, which realized $1,375 against a presale estimate of $800 – $1,000. Both sessions had close to 100% sell-through rates.

Timothy Long, Director and Senior Specialist of Couture and Accessories, stated: “Thank you to everyone who participated in our March 19 Spring Couture & Luxury Accessories auction at Hindman. Our exciting discoveries of luxury accessories from Louis Vuitton, Hermès and Chanel performed best with a near 100% sell-through rate, supported by local interest from throughout the United States and many international clients from England, Netherlands and China.”