Set of Ten Streamlined Chairs for the S.S. United States

Circa 1950, designed by Dorothy "Dot" Marckwald for the Cabin Class Dining Room, aluminum tubular frame with later embroidered nautical star upholstery (originally green leatherette), unmarked.

32 x 23 x 19.5 in.

Private Collection, Edenton, North Carolina

Built during 1950-1951, the SS United States holds the title for the fastest ocean liner to cross the Atlantic in either direction.

The ship was designed by American naval architect William Francis Gibbs and could have been converted into a troopship if required by the Navy in time of war. The ship served as an icon for the nation, transporting numerous celebrities, including the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, throughout her career between 1952-1969. Her design included innovations in steam propulsion, hull form, fire safety, and damage control.

Like all of the furniture on this flagship of the United States Line, the dining chairs had to be crafted of flame-resistant metal. Launched in 1952, the ship was filled with aluminum selected by Gibbs, who designed the vessel to be as fireproof as possible. And while the massive amounts of aluminum did make the SS United States one of the safest ships ever launched, the metallic, modern décor also gave it a special feel unlike any other ocean liner. The upholstered furniture and artwork throughout the ship added texture and color to interior spaces that epitomized 1950s design: sleek, modern, and practical.

Later upholstery with some staining from use; good structural condition.