Flotta Lauro ashtray
Maker
Flotta Lauro
(Italian, 1920 - 1987)
Date1960-1980
Object number00007133
NameAshtray
MediumPlastic
Dimensions103 x 149 x 15 mm
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionA plastic ashtray or small dish from the Flotto Lauro Line featuring a colour photographic image of a funnel lit up at night. Along the base it reads "FLOTTA LAURO".HistoryThe Flotto Lauro Line was founded by Achille Lauro in 1920 and was based in Naples. His father had run a fleet of smaller vessels but with the purchase of the larger ship IRIS, the company was formed and grew to become one of the most influential fleets in the Mediterranean.
In 1964 the ACHILLE LAURO was purchased for the trans-Atlantic route but soon became a cruise ship joined in 1966 with the ANGELINA LAURO for the Australia route. In 1982 Flotta Lauro became Lauro Line and in 1987 it was purchased by the Mediterranean Shipping Company and renamed Star Lauro Cruises. In 1995, the company name was changed to MSC Cruises.
SignificanceCheap, portable and functional items such as ashtrays, key rings, matchboxes, bags, paperweights, pens and T-shirts have always been popular souvenirs purchased on cruise ships or from ports of call. When emblazoned with the name or image of the vessel that the passenger temporarily calls home, the item can be immediately understood. Lasting long after the journey ends, they become poignant reminders of unique times in peoples lives.
