Model of Part of the Roof of a Covered Slipway 1850 - 1860

This is a scale model of a covered slipway roof, made by P. Dockheer from an unknown material. Models like these were crucial tools in the pre-digital age, serving as a vital bridge between design and construction. The Dutch Republic, where this model was likely made, was a global maritime power. The construction of ships was therefore not just an economic activity, but a matter of national importance, heavily influenced by the state and its military ambitions. The slipway allowed ships to be built and repaired under cover, protected from the elements, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of both naval architecture and the practical needs of shipbuilding. Understanding the full significance of this model requires us to consider the social and institutional context in which it was produced. Technical drawings, contracts, and the records of the shipyards themselves could tell us more. The model thus serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between art, technology, and society.