Half Model of an 84-Gun Ship of the Line c. 1836

This half model of an 84-Gun Ship of the Line was made by Rijkswerf Vlissingen, at an unknown date. Ship models served a crucial function, acting as a crucial link between design and construction. In the Netherlands, during the age of mercantile expansion, the Dutch East India Company dominated trade across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Maritime innovation became an emblem of national identity. Shipbuilding itself became a highly specialised and structured industry, with shipyards like Rijkswerf Vlissingen playing a crucial role. These models weren't just technical tools; they were infused with national pride and mercantile ambition. They reflect a society deeply invested in maritime power. The sleek lines and robust construction are visual signifiers of Dutch naval prowess, communicating a message of strength, innovation, and global reach. Understanding the maritime history, economic policies, and the Dutch Republic’s artistic conventions is essential for us to grasp the significance of this object fully.