AN HISTORICALLY INTERESTING ENGINE ROOM PLATE FROM THE P&O LINES PASSENGER/CARGO SHIP T.S.S. CATHAY (1924)
the brass plate engraved with black-filled lettering and bulkhead securing holes -- 12 x 18in. (30.5 x 46cm.)

Ordered in 1923 from Barclay, Curle & Co. Ltd. for the Australia run, the Cathay was launched on 31st October 1924 by Lady Inchcape - the same day as one her daughters launched Cathay's sister ship Comorin at the same yard. Registered at just over 15,000 tons, she could steam at 16 knots but was never in fact fitted with the exhaust turbines that are suggested in the designation of this engine plate. With her sisters, she maintained a fortnightly service to Australia, adding a stop at Bombay in 1932, supplemented with the occasional Far Eastern run. On 25th August 1939 she was requisitioned by the Admiralty and refitted in Bombay as an armed merchant cruiser serving between Bombay and Durban. In July 1941 she rescued 900 survivors of the torpedoed RAF transport Anselm. She was converted to a troopship in early 1942 and it was whilst discharging troops at Bougie for Montgomery's North African campaign on 11th November the same year that she was bombed by the Luftwaffe at 1.30pm. Abandoned at 7pm, a delayed-action bomb exploded in her galley starting a serious fire which, when it reached her magazine, blew her stern off and she sank on her starboard side, completely gutted. It is unknown when her engine plate was removed, but it has resided in the UK for many years with the vendor's family.

Condition Report
Wear to lettering, staining, unpolished. Possibly subjected to heat damage?? Solid condition.

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.