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One sheet 1935 vintage travel poster for the
RMS Orion, an innovative ocean liner owned by the Orient Steam Navigation Company.
The RMS Orion
Launched in December 1934 and completed in August 1935, the Orion was considered a "ship of the future" for its era. It primarily served the route between London and Australia via the Suez Canal.
Design Innovations: It was the first British liner to feature air conditioning (initially in its public dining rooms) and the first to use chromium and bakelite extensively to resist sea air corrosion.
Distinctive Livery: It introduced the famous corn-colored hull of the Orient Line, departing from the traditional black hulls of previous liners.
War Service: During World War II, it was requisitioned as a troopship, carrying over 175,000 personnel and participating in major operations like Operation Torch in North Africa.
Legacy: After returning to civilian service post-war, it continued the Australia run until 1963. It served briefly as a floating hotel in Hamburg before being scrapped in Belgium later that year.
Poster Details
This specific poster highlights the ship's tonnage of 23,371 tons. During this period, the Orient Line frequently commissioned renowned modernist artists like Edward McKnight Kauffer to create their brand identity and promotional materials. |
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