By: Philip S. Reed

An engaging waterline depiction of this ‘state-of-the-art’ vessel La Renommee, a Sirene Class 30-gun French frigate whose speed and prowess was of utmost interest to the British Admiralty. Its distinctive ‘tumble-home’ on the upper topsides was a particular feature of its naval architecture. In 1747 it was captured by the British and replicated here having just been captured (British flag flies over the French ensign off the lateen). The solid wood core model has been planked-over in natural wood with the bottom showing a tallow-cream paint. It shows individual deck planking and other carefully crafted deck furniture, gear, armament and fittings. The decorative work on the model is convincingly displayed, especially on the stern & transom with a coat-of-arms and lanterns. The figurehead is the Greek deity Fame (a winged female) in a polychrome presentation. The model is thoroughly rigged with twisted copper wire appropriately painted, treated and painted tissues sails in various configurations. The water is hand-carved of jet long and then hand-painted with artist oils. It is mounted in a English oak burl veneer case with matching trim and two brass engraved plaques.

Model type: Waterline
Scale: 1/16" = 1'
Size: 20” x 10 1/8” x 12”
Class: A/ Special
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