Model of a Capstan with a Winch c. 1834

This is a model of a capstan with a winch, crafted by Rijkswerf Rotterdam. Note the star motif inlaid on the capstan’s top. Stars, throughout history, have been far more than celestial guides; they've been potent symbols of destiny and higher guidance. Consider how this star, meant to assist sailors, echoes across time. The compass rose, an essential element of naval exploration and maritime navigation, features the star, a recurring motif connecting sailors to the cosmos, intertwining human endeavor with the grand design of the universe. One could also compare the star motif in this naval context to the Star of Bethlehem, guiding the Magi. Here we see a common thread: the psychological need for symbols of hope and direction. This primal quest for guidance is eternally etched in our collective memory, powerfully influencing our interpretations and inspiring the creation of such objects.