Half Model of a Schooner c. 1799

This half model of a schooner was likely made in the 19th century from wood. It gives us an insight into the cultural and economic importance of shipbuilding. Ship models such as this were commissioned by shipbuilders as a tool to test the design of a vessel before building the full-scale ship. They were often displayed in the offices of the shipyard or presented to the ship's owner. The level of detail is remarkable, revealing an intimate knowledge of the maritime industry. They became symbols of wealth and power associated with maritime trade. The sleek lines of the schooner speak to the cultural values placed on speed, efficiency, and technological advancement. We might consider the social context of global trade networks, colonialism, and the labor involved in maritime industries, including enslaved labor, and how these factors shape the artistic and cultural significance of the work. Maritime museums, historical archives, and collections of nautical artifacts could help us understand how the construction of such objects reflect the values of that time.