Late 19th Century French Steamer Trunk

Late 19th Century French Steamer Trunk £350 A seemingly straight forward trunk, all be it a very elegantly crafted one.But on closer inspection, it begins to give up its secrets!First, there's some writing which has come off something as it's back to front.It reads Madame Vve PƎul Mangin L.D.Research has shown that the Vve is an old fashioned French title meaning widow.Which helped me date it to the latter part of the 19th century and or turn of the century.The L.D. means 'Lieu de Domicile'. Translated, means 'place of residence'.And tantalisingly, below, there is some script which I cannot make out.Which I assume might be her address.And the back to front E, Ǝ, is an additional letter of the Latin alphabet used in African languages using the Pan-Nigerian alphabet.So it's possible this lady was either travelling to or from an African French colony.The case itself is a beautifully patinaed beige yellow. Giving it plenty of character!Bounded with thin metal strips, complete with brass studs.It also has brass corner edge plates for protection.Locks are in good order and working, although no key present.Assumed leather handle has long since perished but brackets remain.Inside, is a wood effect veneer.with a strap and rotatable wood strips for hanging items over, one would assume, if the trunk was stored vertically.There is also signs of how quality this trunk was, in the sprung piston mechanisms to teh left hand side which ensured a gentle, controlled closing.All in all, a most interesting and well made trunk which would look good in any home or commercial setting. Dimensions: 79cm wide. 52cm deep. 25cm high. Weight: 8 kg Condition: Scuffs and scrapes commensurate with its 100 years. Leather carrying handle missing. Please see photos.