L’Observatoire By World-Renowned Artist JR

<   ONLINE AUCTION

L’Observatoire by world-renowned artist JR

A Belmond experience aboard the
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

You and a guest will have an extremely special and rare opportunity to indulge in one of the most sought-after world-class travel experiences: a luxurious journey from Paris to Venice in L’Observatoire, a unique carriage designed by the world-renowned artist JR. An artwork in motion created by pioneering artist JR, which saw its debut at the 2024 Venice Biennale, the carriage is a one-of-a-kind space to embrace curiosity, adventure, and creativity. Inspired by astronomical observatories, JR has designed a Suite that encourages you to gaze up, out, and beyond.

Throughout the carriage, which JR designed as a “studio on wheels,” there are constant secret wonders to discover, dotted throughout the lounge, library, bathroom, and hidden tearoom. Inspired by Renaissance cabinets of curiosity, L’Observatoire has a level of detail never before seen in a train carriage. Masters of marquetry and stained-glass were called upon, alongside burgeoning artisans-to-watch. From watching the world pass by from the double bed to stargazing through an oculus-shaped skylight, each detail tells its own fascinating story.

Upon your arrival in Venice, you will be transported to Hotel Cipriani, a Belmond hotel, where you will enjoy a two-night stay in a sumptuous Junior Suite and a complimentary dinner one evening at Cip’s Club, famed as one of the most romantic settings in all of Venice thanks to enchanting views across St. Mark’s Square and the lull of lagoon waves.

Package includes:

  • Travel from Paris to Venice aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in the JR Observatoire, with 24-hour butler service and private in-cabin dining and any beverages desired, from champagne to cocktails
  • Two (2) nights accommodation for two (2) people at Hotel Ciprani, with complimentary dinner at Cip’s Club .

Courtesy of Belmond (@belmond)


Both stays are subject to availability. Valid through December 31, 2026. Food and drinks are included. The package also includes private transfer to the hotel and one dinner for two at Cip’s Club . Hotel Cipriani is a seasonal property and it will be open from May 30  until October 5, 2025. amfAR will accept cryptocurrency for the hammer price of all auction lots. Further auction terms and conditions can be found here.