Lot Essay
In 1927, France's Compagnie General Transatlantique (CGT) launched their new flagship, the Ile de France. At 4,153 GRT and 792 feet, and with a speed of 24 knots, she was one of the most luxurious liners on the ocean and was instantly popular. France's finest interior designers and craftsmen were commissioned to decorate the ship in the ultra-modern Art Deco style. The Ile was a floating palace with a legendary grand staircase which rose three decks. Leleu was involved in creating furniture and interiors on the Ile and chairs to the above design were incorporated into the interior of the Appartment de luxe "Versailles" on the liner in 1949.
The Ile was totally rebuilt after World War II and although she sailed for another decade, she was eventually sold to Japanese shipbreakers at the end of 1958.
The Ile was totally rebuilt after World War II and although she sailed for another decade, she was eventually sold to Japanese shipbreakers at the end of 1958.