Compagnie Internationale Des Wagons-lits (ciwl) – Morrison / René Prou – Possible Orient Express

A rare marquetry panel from the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (CIWL), the famous operator of European luxury trains such as the Orient Express, the Train Bleu, and many other prestigious international routes.

This panel is crafted from precious wood marquetry and depicts tropical vegetation within an octagonal cartouche. The choice of wood species and the finesse of the craftsmanship are characteristic of the luxurious Art Deco interiors created for the CIWL’s sleeper cars during the 1920s. Similar panels are known to exist on the market and are associated with the Morrison design firm (circa 1922) as well as with René Prou, who continued the company’s interior renovations beginning in the mid-1920s.

According to its provenance, this panel was part of a set of four panels from a car belonging to the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, which is said to have operated on the Orient Express. Unfortunately, this attribution cannot be confirmed by archival documents, but the panel is undoubtedly an authentic element of a CIWL luxury interior.

The reverse side bears several original markings, including “G6,” the Roman numeral “II,” and a number painted in blue, likely corresponding to the manufacturing and assembly markings used when the cars were built.

Condition:

Very good overall condition. The panel shows slight warping due to age, which can easily be corrected if desired. A small, inconspicuous surface defect (scratch) is visible on the front. The marquetry is remarkably well-preserved and makes a very attractive decorative statement.

Dimensions:

• Height: 93.5 cm
• Width: 21.8 cm
• Dimensions of the marquetry: 44.5 × 15.8 cm

A rare and decorative piece that will appeal to collectors of the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, the Orient Express, Art Deco decorative arts, and items related to European railway heritage.

Thank you for visiting.

Best regards,

Ben