Model of a Timber Ship c. 1824

This model timber ship, made by an anonymous artist, is primarily constructed from wood. It represents not only the material from which such ships were made, but also the skilled labor involved in shipbuilding. Notice how the wood's inherent qualities - its grain, texture, and workability - have been carefully considered in its construction. The hull is painted white below the waterline, contrasting with the natural wood finish above. This is a deliberate choice to emphasize the ship's form and the materials from which it was built. Ships like these depended on the physical labor of countless individuals, from the felling of trees to the assembly of planks. It underscores the labor and resources required for maritime trade and naval power. By focusing on the materials and making of this model, we can better appreciate the broader social and economic context in which it was created. It encourages us to reconsider the traditional boundaries between fine art and craft, recognizing the value of skilled labor and material knowledge.