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Two iconic Virgil Abloh designs – the “Admiral” jacket and the “Paint Can Bag” – go under the hammer on 11 December.
Louis Vuitton “Admiral” jacket in brown monogram canvas and light brown leather. Designed by Virgil Abloh, 2019. Size 44 (FR). Estimate: 3,300–4,000 EUR.

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Own a Piece of Fashion History: Two Iconic Virgil Abloh Designs Up for Auction

When the Danish auction house Bruun Rasmussen holds its Live Auction on 11 December, collectors and fashion enthusiasts will have the opportunity to acquire two designs by internationally acclaimed designer Virgil Abloh: the “Admiral” jacket from 2019 and the iconic “Paint Can Bag.” Both designs testify to Abloh’s creative vision and his significance in the modernization of luxury fashion.

Virgil Abloh (1980–2021) quickly became a global trendsetter when he was appointed Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear in 2018. His background in architecture, music, and conceptual art made him a designer who constantly challenged traditional perceptions of luxury. Drawing on his references and blending streetwear with high-end fashion, he created his signature design language, which he had developed as creative director at rapper and designer Kanye West’s agency, Donda.

Since its founding in 1854, Louis Vuitton has been a symbol of craftsmanship, innovation, and exclusivity. From the early handcrafted trunks to the invention of the iconic LV monogram, the brand has always combined tradition and forward thinking. Abloh’s conceptual approach became a natural extension of this legacy, introducing a new aesthetic that spoke to a younger generation while still respecting the brand’s rich history. His work was both commercially groundbreaking and artistically influential.

The Architect Behind a New Era in Luxury Fashion

Abloh worked with the idea that even small changes – “3% changes” – could create something radically new, and his approach was described as innovative and culturally transformative. He combined humor, irony, and strong cultural references in his work, and his designs are known for bridging high and low culture. In doing so, he brought new generations into the universe of luxury fashion.

The Louis Vuitton “Admiral” jacket, estimated at EUR 3,300–4,000, and the “Paint Can Bag,” estimated at EUR 1,600–2,000, are not just fashion objects but symbols of the aesthetic renewal Virgil Abloh brought to luxury fashion. They demonstrate his ability to unite luxury, heritage, and a new generational perspective on fashion. The auction offers the chance to acquire two remarkable designs and a piece of fashion history, while Abloh’s creative legacy continues to leave its mark on the international luxury scene. Today, his designs are highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

All interested parties can view the two designs during the preview from 4–10 December at Bruun Rasmussen's showroom in Denmark – Nørgaardsvej 3, 2800 Lyngby – before the Live Auction takes place on 11 December at the same address.

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Bruun Rasmussen has since 1948 sold art, design, jewellery, wristwatches, antiques and collectibles such as wine, books, coins and stamps. As the leading auction house in Denmark, we sell over 75,000 items every year at our Online Auctions at bruun-rasmussen.dk and at Live Auctions at our auction house in Lyngby.

Our specialists are the most experienced and competent in the industry. The work in the auction house places great demands on our knowledge of art and trends on the market. This way, we can provide valuations and advice of the highest quality – which has become our trademark – and thereby offer the best lots from all categories and achieve high hammer prices for the benefit of our customers.

At Bruun Rasmussen, we are one of Europe's most modern and digital auction houses, and it is only natural for us to adapt to changes in the market. Innovation is part of our DNA, while we are also deeply rooted in our history.

In 2022, after having been family-owned through three generations, we became part of the international “Bonhams Network”, expanding our global reach and access to specialists all over the world. We strategically present and sell art where it makes the most sense in relation to potential buyers.

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