Design for Stem of a Ship 18th century

This is an anonymous design for the stem of a ship, rendered in ink and watercolor. The drawing presents an intricate study in symmetry and structure, focusing on the elaborate ornamentation that would have adorned the stern of a ship. The repetitive patterns of oval and circular motifs, combined with the grid-like arrangement of the windows, create a complex visual rhythm. These elements may reflect a desire to assert naval power through a display of architectural and decorative prowess. The composition emphasizes a harmonious balance between decorative excess and structural clarity. It challenges the conventional distinction between form and function, suggesting that design and utility could be intertwined to promote ideals of cultural prestige.