Model of a 90-Gun Ship 1806 - 1809

This is a model of a 90-Gun Ship made at 's Lands Werf Amsterdam. Notice the intricate wooden framework that makes up this model. Its honeyed hues give it a warm, inviting feel, despite the rigid, geometric forms that define its structure. What we see here isn't just a ship; it's a deconstruction. The artist exposes the ship’s internal architecture. The rows of square openings create a grid-like pattern which is interrupted by the soft curves of the ship’s hull, offering a contrast between industrial precision and organic form. The texture of the wood adds another layer, as its grain and imperfections create a sense of depth and history. This piece invites us to consider ideas of transparency and revelation. By exposing the ship's inner workings, the model destabilizes our conventional understanding. The model prompts us to reflect on what is hidden beneath the surface, suggesting that true understanding comes from dissecting and analyzing constituent parts.