*French, Mid-20th Century, SS Île de France Ocean Liner Cap Tally (Bachi Ribbon), Compagnie Générale Transatlantique – French Line*
A very attractive vintage sailor’s cap tally from the celebrated French ocean liner SS Île de France, operated by the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique (C.G.T.), internationally known as the French Line. The dark navy ribbon is embroidered in gold with the ship’s name “ILE DE FRANCE”, flanked by the French tricolour flag at one end and the French Line company house flag at the other.
The company flag incorporates the stylised lettering “CIE GLE TRANSATLANTIQUE”, an abbreviated form of Compagnie Générale Transatlantique, the historic French shipping line responsible for some of France’s most famous liners including Normandie, Île de France, and later France.
Cap tallies of this type were worn on the traditional French sailor’s cap (bachi) by crew members aboard the ship, though they were also frequently sold to passengers as souvenirs during voyages, particularly during formal evenings and “Gala Nights”.
Approx. Measurements – Length: 64 cm. Width: 3 cm.
History Note:
The SS Île de France was launched in 1926 and quickly became one of the most celebrated transatlantic liners of the inter-war period, famed for her pioneering Art Deco interiors. During the Second World War she served as an Allied troopship before being extensively refitted and returned to passenger service in the late 1940s.
Cap tallies of this embroidered souvenir style are generally associated with the ship’s later passenger service period, when liners once again catered to civilian travellers and onboard memorabilia was widely produced for passengers and crew alike.
*Condition*
The ribbon remains in good overall vintage condition with some staining, fading and light wear, consistent with age and use. The ends show fraying and there is minor thread loss to the embroidery in places. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
