MID-CENTURY PASSENGER SHIP INTERIOR DESIGN AND COSTUME REFERENCE ALBUM, 1965

Item #1739

Small spiral-bound album measuring 6.25 x 8.5 inches, containing nineteen 3.5 x 5-inch color snapshots, most date-stamped 1965. Apparently assembled as an internal furnishing and entertainment reference for an unidentified passenger ship or cruise liner.

The first portion documents mid-century furniture used throughout the ship, including chairs and vanity benches for the ballroom, smoking room, card room, library, galleria, and staterooms. Detailed handwritten captions record room locations, division and purchase-order numbers, upholstery materials, and colors such as turquoise, blue-green, gold, wine-orchid, Siamese pink, and grey mohair. Several photographs show identical furniture in multiple proposed colorways.

The latter portion records colorful garments or costumes apparently intended for themed shipboard events identified as “French Night,” “Bavarian Night,” and “Topside Aloha.” Among these are a harlequin-patterned vest, a red vest with decorative shoulder trim, and a vivid floral Hawaiian shirt.

An unusual working document illuminating the interior decoration, purchasing practices, and orchestrated leisure culture of mid-1960s ocean travel. The black album covers show light rubbing and edge wear; photographs generally very good, with the expected mild color shift.

Price: $250.00