Model of a Capstan c. 1850

This is a model of a capstan, made of wood and metal, by Rijkswerf Vlissingen. At first glance, the model presents a study in geometric forms. The cylindrical body is juxtaposed with a square base, softening its edges with spherical feet. The warm hues of wood and brass create a visual harmony, a tactile invitation to explore its surfaces. But this piece is more than just an aesthetic exercise. It functions as a semiotic marker, referring to a capstan's utility aboard ships for heaving anchors or cargo. Note how the craftsmanship elevates the model beyond mere representation, challenging conventional notions of utility. The interplay of vertical and horizontal lines introduces a structural framework, emphasizing stability and functionality. Consider how the artist manipulates scale, transforming a large nautical mechanism into a miniature object. This shift in scale destabilizes our understanding of size and purpose, inviting us to reconsider relationships between objects and their functions. The model capstan prompts questions about art's capacity to reshape our understanding of utilitarian objects.