Introduction

What stands out about this model ship is its size. This miniature POW model ship in its original straw-work display case is only 3.5 inchs long. It is made of bone and was originally rigged with silk, though previous repairs with other materials had been made. This meant the ship required stabilisation and re-rigging. The case features a mirrored interior, silk curtains, ivory finials, and glass front. The straw work was lifting in several areas, and the silk curtains had shattered.

Treatment

The ship was secured to the bench with one inch masking tape so that it could be safely re-rigged. Originally the aim was to preserve as much original rigging as possible but as the project progressed that became impossible. It also became apparent that much of the rigging was not original and the wrong size lines were used in many places. Therefore, new rigging was added and special attention was made to ensure the correct weight line was used. This also made it possible to rig in the ship ‘in order,’ starting with the standing rigging followed by the running rigging.

The straw-work on the case was consolidated with methylcellulose 4% aqueous. The curtains were replaced with new silk which were color matched to approximate a faded version of the original red color, and the original ribbons used to tie them back as intended.

Unfortunately, I have yet to be provided with the final report from Rob Napier, a master model ship maker, who was in charge of the project.

During Treatment of the display case with the ship removed, and shattered curtains still in place.

During treatment with the ship secured to the bench. Blue masking tape is one inch for scale.

After treatment with ship in place and glass panel closed.