Half Model of a Gunboat c. 1796

This half model of a gunboat, dating to c. 1796, showcases the detailed craftsmanship of shipbuilding during the late 18th century. The model, constructed of wood and mounted on a wooden frame, provides a meticulous representation of the gunboat's hull, displaying the ribs, planking, and the curve of the vessel's side. These half models served as important tools for shipbuilders, allowing them to visualize and refine the design of vessels before full-scale construction. The anonymity of the artist suggests that this was a functional, rather than an artistic, creation.