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Image Not Available for The New Liner 'ORCADES', Orient Line to Australia
The New Liner 'ORCADES', Orient Line to Australia
Image Not Available for The New Liner 'ORCADES', Orient Line to Australia

The New Liner 'ORCADES', Orient Line to Australia

Artist (British, 1873 - 1958)
Maker (1878 - 1966)
Maker
Date1938
Object number00006988
NamePoster
MediumColour lithograph on paper
DimensionsOverall: 1014 x 633 mm, 0.05 kg
ClassificationsPosters and postcards
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis poster promoting the Orient Line's new liner ORCADES and winter fares to Australia to celebrate the nation's sesquicentenary in 1938 was designed by Charles Pears. The poster's Art Deco style highlights the grandeur of the new addition to the fleet with its new corn-coloured livery, while the bougainvillea hints at warmer climes and the exoticism of travel abroad.HistoryORCADES was launched in 1937 and incorporated the design principles and aesthetics of the state-of-the-art ORION, which had been launched in 1935. The interiors of both ships followed the sleek lines of the vessel's exterior and incorporated new materials that were both modern and adapted to the elements. They set new standards in shipboard style and passenger comfort. Like the ORION, the ORCADES sported the line's new corn-coloured hull, single mast and single buff funnel. With fewer passengers and larger rooms, the ORCADES provided even more comfort than its predecessor.SignificanceThe poster is a rare example of a design produced by leading British marine artist Charles Pears. The layout is representative of the transition between traditional ship portrait compositions popular in the early 20th century and later Modernist-inspired designs.