Louis Vuitton celebrates its ateliers and artisans in chic new tome
Louis Vuitton Manufactures, published by Assouline, explores the French maison’s craftsmanship through specially commissioned photography
Olivier Pilcher - Photography
Louis Vuitton puts the focus on its artisans in Assouline’s new book, Louis Vuitton Manufactures. Author, historian and journalist Nicholas Foulkes takes a deep dive into the craftsmanship traditions of the maison, with an exploration of its creations, including trunks, bags, fragrances, watches, shoes, high jewellery and ready-to-wear. The skills intertwined with the design codes of the brand are celebrated in specially commissioned photography that puts the artisans at the heart of the process.
Louis, Georges and Gaston Louis Vuitton at the Atelier d'Asnières, north-west of Paris
Photography celebrates both the history and contemporary creation methods of the brand, from capturing Louis, Georges and Gaston-Louis Vuitton outside the Atelier d’Asnières to exploring the vast Ranch Rochambeau in Texas. Other images explore artistry, taking a closer look at intricate design methodologies, including the precise stitching on sneakers and refining the cut of the ubiquitous LV monogrammed leather.
Louis Vuitton puts an emphasis on local savoir-faire, drawing on the expertise of global craftspeople in a rethink of the traditional centralised workshop. Ateliers are based around the world – throughout France, in Geneva, Fiesso d’Artico in Italy, and Texas. Workshops are thoughtfully situated: in Ducey in Normandy, the picturesque island of Mont-Saint-Michel can be admired from the window; in Beaulieu-sur-Layon, a light-filled location translates into a low environmental impact.
Inside the page of Louis Vuitton Manufactures
Ranch Rochambeau Texas atelier
The book is an elegant tribute to a house that has stayed faithful to the original design language defined in 1854, with a focus on enduring style and lasting quality. Founder Louis Vuitton brought an art to the mundanity of travel through luggage and accessories that were both practical and chic. In new collections, designers across a range of disciplines, including architecture and art, have reinterpreted this functionality in designs that put artistry at their core. It is an aesthetic succinctly summarised by Louis Vuitton chairman and CEO Michael Burke: ‘Fundamentally, it’s not about luggage, it’s about innovation.’
INFORMATION
Louis Vuitton Manufactures is published by Assouline
assouline.com
louisvuitton.com
