A most unique large scale wooden model of 'R.M.S. EMPRESS OF BRITAIN', the superstructure is lit from within (functioning), rigged & detailed with a compliment of 15 adjustable lifeboats, a float plane, and the upper deck replete with deck chairs, badminton nets, etc. Ship dimensions, 62" long x 9" wide x 30" high. Crate dimensions, 39" high x 67" long x 15" wide. Note: The R.M.S. Empress of Britain was completed in 1931, and was the largest ship in the Canadian Pacific fleet, as well as the most luxurious & fastest transatlantic passenger ship sailing at that time between Canada & Great Britain. She was the largest liner sunk by a German U-Boat on October 28th, 1940 off the coast of Northern Ireland, and is recorded as the largest liner lost during World War II. Provenance: Based on family account, this model was made by an inmate at St. Vincent de Paul Penitentiary in Quebec, and acquired at the inmate hobby craft center by their grandfather who was then the head of the Remission Branch Service for the Canadian Federal Government (later known as Correctional Services of Canada) thence by descent to their father in 1942.

Retains its original shipping crate bearing stenciled lettering and remnants of paper handling labels. Condition noted, surface wear, minor losses, one propeller is detached but remains intact. Some lifeboats requiring minor restoration.