Model of the Slave Ship De Witte Oliphant 1755

This is a model of the slave ship, De Witte Oliphant, made by an anonymous artist using wood and rope. The model meticulously recreates the ship’s structure, from its hull and deck to the intricate rigging of its masts. The choice of materials speaks volumes. Wood, shaped and joined with precision, mirrors the labor and craftsmanship invested in the original vessel. The ropes, carefully knotted and arranged, evoke the ship's reliance on human skill and nautical technology to traverse vast distances. Every element is wrought by hand, mirroring the immense labour required to build and maintain the ship. Consider how this detailed model transforms the harsh realities of the slave trade. It invites contemplation on the labor, both forced and free, that fueled maritime commerce. It asks us to confront the dark legacies of colonialism and the human cost of economic expansion. By emphasizing material and making, we are better positioned to understand the full weight of this object. It is an aesthetic artifact, a historical document, and a powerful reminder of a complex past.