Leseprobe

150 The Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt company, founded in 1836, owns the world’s largest and oldest fleet of paddle steamers, which are powered by two parallel rotating paddle wheels. The Leipzig , built in 1929 and capable of carrying up to 1,500 passengers, is the youngest and also the largest of Sächsische Dampfschiffahrt’s fleet. She originally sailed as a ‘saloon steamer’ on the Elbe. During the Second World War, the Leipzig was converted into a hospital ship and painted camouflage grey. She carried the wounded out of Dresden following the devastating air raids in February 1945. A short time later she was badly damaged by an aerial bomb and had to undergo extensive repairs. As of 1947, the Leipzig once again sails the Elbe as a passenger ship, to the delight of her guests – including many day trippers and tourists. Deutsche Werkstätten executed the interior furnishings for the public areas on the Leipzig , first class and second class alike. The plans were provided by the Munich architect Karl Bertsch, who designed the interiors of many ocean-going vessels as well. LEIPZIG (1929) Sächsisch-BöhmischeDampfschiffahrt | Laubegast Shipyard (Dresden) | 70.1m Staircase Waiter’s work station