A historic mahogany settle constructed from RMS Rawalpindi, circa 1939
A historic mahogany settle constructed from RMS Rawalpindi, circa 1939
A remarkable and historically important mahogany settle constructed from original fittings and timber removed from the P&O liner RMS Rawalpindi, which was sunk in action on 23 November 1939.
The settle incorporates a pair of original carved gangway boards from Rawalpindi, each prominently carved with the P&O insignia and the ship's name, together with flame mahogany panelling removed from the vessel. The architectural back is formed with twin arched panels beneath a carved radiating sunburst crest, while the hinged box seat opens to provide storage.
A brass plaque mounted beneath the crest is inscribed:
“P & O S.S. Rawalpindi
Sunk in Action
Nov. 23rd 1939.”
Launched in 1925 for the Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company, Rawalpindi was one of P&O's celebrated R-class liners. In August 1939 she was requisitioned by the Admiralty and converted into the armed merchant cruiser HMS Rawalpindi. On 23 November 1939, while serving with the Northern Patrol, she encountered the German battlecruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau. Despite being overwhelmingly outgunned, Captain Edward Kennedy chose to engage, and Rawalpindi was subsequently sunk with heavy loss of life.
The incorporation of the vessel's original carved gangway boards and mahogany panelling gives the settle an exceptional direct connection with one of P&O's best-known liners and one of the notable early naval actions of the Second World War.
Condition: in good antique condition with wear, marks, scratches and variations in colour consistent with age and use. Please refer to photographs.
Dimensions: 126cm high, 110cm wide, 47cm deep; seat height 46cm
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Email: info@alessiolorenzi.com
Phone: +44 7701 088 288
REFERENCE: G2645