Around 1930. Pierre Lardin. Design For A Decorative Staircase Mirror For An Ocean Liner

The golden age of transatlantic liners was truly the interwar period. European nations competed in luxury and speed for what was—alas, only for a short time longer—the sole means of crossing the oceans in extraordinary comfort, for the wealthiest, of course.
All the great designers were called upon to transform the Paris, the Île-de-France, and—of course, the pinnacle of them all—the Normandie into unforgettable floating palaces, true showcases of the French art of living. 
Every material was tested, particularly glass. Lalique created the iconic light fixtures and illuminated fountains in the Normandy’s first-class dining room. Max Ingrand crafted the magnificent painted mirror panels, accented with gold, for the smoking room. 
Pierre Lardin (1902–1982), a renowned and versatile artist, was also commissioned to create the decor aboard these prestigious vessels, particularly in the ultra-luxurious suites.
Trained in engraving at the École Boulle, he worked for Maurice Dufrene at the Maîtrise, as well as for the metalworker Brandt and even the jeweler Cartier. 
He gradually transitioned from furniture design to the art of engraved glass.
He exhibited at the Salon des Arts Décoratifs and at major international European fairs.
In addition, he taught and served as director of the Grenoble School of Fine Arts. 
He received commissions for wall decorations on several ocean liners.
Our design is therefore a project for a monumental staircase to be crafted from painted and gilded glass panels. 
The proposed subject is a triumph of Poseidon; how, then, could one not consider a reference to the *Normandie*, echoing the statue by Sarrabezolles that once adorned the ship’s foredeck? 
A set of mirrors of identical shape but with different designs was sold as having originally adorned the south staircase of the Normandie.
Since we have not found sufficient documentation, it is possible that this was also a rejected design, or one intended for another ship. 
Anyone with relevant information is, of course, welcome to share it.
The drawing is mounted on a stiff, gray-edged cardboard backing, simply set in a period Art Deco silver-leaf frame, on a lead-gray background. 
It is executed in gold and silver paints and enhanced with gouache.
The mirror effect is perfectly rendered.
Excellent original condition.
Dimensions of the artwork: 32.5 cm x 32.5 cm