From Second French Empire pageantry to the brand's Far East launch; from the classic LV travel chest to Nicolas Ghesquières' trunk-inspired collection; and from the house's emblematic monogram, to recent creations merging it with daring designs from contemporary artists, this volume tells the story of Louis Vuitton, the designer that embodies the spirit of travel and quintessentially French elegance the world over. Explore the people, the places, and the clients at the heart of the Louis Vuitton story- the kings and princesses, intrepid explorers and prima donnas, and the creations, objects, and accessories-which imbue Louis Vuitton with the spirit of travel, and discover the evolutions in technology and design that are essential to the success of this extraordinary brand. The work offers a journey into the Vuitton universe, the brand's rich history, and its passionate defense of quality craftsmanship, art, and artists. With insight from the Vuitton archives, this work reveals the constantly evolving design inspiration that is central to the brand, walking the line between classic style and modernity.