Märklin Ocean Liner Illuminated Store Display Germany, circa 1915

Travel posters have been produced for decades luring bored and tired consumers to distant shores and exotic locales. Märklin did a brisk trade fitting the hulls of some of their larger ocean liners to create three-dimensional advertisements that perfectly represented the luxury of a cruise. This ship features a white superstructure with plank decking and three decks surmounted by oval, slanting funnels, mullioned skylights, bridge, and lifeboats with davits. A small cabin at stern over two decks furthers the illusion of multiple decks. Superstructure lifts off to reveal  an interior that  can be fitted with lighting. When illuminated, light streams forth through the cut-out portholes.



 

Length: 37 inches

Repainted; mast incomplete; fixtures, davits, railing, one mast and most lifeboats missing. Please note that the stand is not for sale and will not accompany the lot.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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 Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.