^Lot 1649 Aft Grand Staircase Relic

An original fragment of the Titanic’s aft grand staircase. This section of carved English oak the balustrade molding measures 3 x 1.25 x .75 and bears a distinctive raised leaf. This molding was originally part of the aft grand staircase and this pattern is known to have run beneath the entire length of the handrails. In fine condition. Accompanied by photocopies of paperwork concerning the provenance and history of the piece.

Carved by master craftsmen, the paneling and woodwork of the aft grand staircase were torn apart when the Titanic broke up as it was sinking. Much of the wood found floating after the sinking was thought to have come from the aft staircase. During the effort to recover the bodies of victims, crewman collected various debris, including this fragment. It was likely collected by the cable ship Minia which recovered 17 bodies as well as pieces from the grand staircase among the floating debris. An extraordinary remnant of one of the most iconic spaces of the grand ship.