Model of a Life Buoy 1870 - 1885

This is a Model of a Life Buoy, whose maker is unknown, and whose date is also a mystery. Considered one of the oldest known life buoys, it invites us to reflect on the historical context of maritime safety and its cultural significance. What narratives of survival and loss are embedded in this object? The design, seemingly simple, provokes an interesting set of questions around identity and social structure. Who was this life buoy made for? Who had access to maritime safety in the past? Does its existence suggest a shared sense of humanity or reveal disparities in who gets rescued? The anonymity of the artist adds another layer to its interpretation. It embodies a collective, perhaps unspoken, commitment to preserving life. It stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and our shared vulnerability in the face of the sea’s relentless power.