A GANGWAY LIFEBUOY FOR R.M.S. QUEEN ELIZABETH
of typical form, the white-painted canvas covering with Cunard emblems flanking inscription and grab ropes to edge -- 30in. (76cm.) diameter

R.M.S. Queen Elizabeth was designed as the running mate for Cunard's extremely successful Queen Mary but was not ready for sea by the time the Second World War began in September 1939. Laid down in John Brown's yards on Clydebank in December 1936, her huge hull - weighing 40,000 tons - was launched by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth (wife of King George VI) in September 1938, although her completion was delayed by the worsening international situation. Sent secretly to New York when almost finished in March 1940, she was laid up there for eight months and then sent to Singapore where she was converted into a troopship. After a distinguished wartime career, she returned to Southampton in June 1946 where she finally received the luxurious fittings and furniture which had been stored throughout the War pending her return.

Sailing from Southampton on her maiden commercial voyage in October 1946, she was soon joined by the reconditioned Queen Mary and together they began a spectacularly profitable North Atlantic service which lasted for fifteen years. Only then did airline popularity affect profits and she was eventually withdrawn from passenger operations in October 1968. An American venture to preserve her in Florida came to nothing and, in 1970, she was sold to the Taiwanese shipping tycoon C.Y. Tung who planned to turn her into a floating university. In January 1972, whilst undergoing conversion for her new role in Hong Kong, she mysteriously caught fire under still unexplained circumstances, capsized due to the weight of water pumped into her by fireboats and became a total loss.

Given to the vendor by the Master of Arms when he was present at the Farewell Balls for both liners in Southampton.

Condition Report
Paint cracquelured overall; dirt; some minor scuffs; unrestored; 'as found'.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.