Model of a Round-Headed Rudder for Frigates c. 1829

Editor: Here we have the “Model of a Round-Headed Rudder for Frigates” created around 1829, likely from wood. It’s strikingly geometric; almost like an abstract sculpture more than a functional object. What aspects stand out to you? Curator: The object prompts a crucial examination of labor and the division of crafts, especially at Rijkswerf Vlissingen. I’m interested in the means of production – where the wood came from, the workshops involved, and the expertise necessary to create this model. What was the social status of the artisans crafting this object versus the naval architects who designed it? Editor: That's an interesting angle, focusing on the labor behind the piece rather than its function. Did the act of creating the model, using specific tools and techniques, influence the design or material choices of the actual rudder? Curator: Precisely! The tactile engagement with the material informs the design itself. Were there limitations or innovations in woodworking at the time that shaped the possibilities for the rudder's construction? The physical properties of wood constrained and guided the conceptualization of the object. This is about the embodied knowledge of craftspeople. Editor: So, by understanding the production process and material limitations, we gain a deeper appreciation for the innovation present, despite its seemingly simple appearance? Curator: Absolutely. Thinking materially helps us dissolve that false high/low art dichotomy. The technical skill in creating such a precise model reflects artistic intention just as much as any painting or sculpture. It forces us to look beyond aesthetics to the realities of maritime technology and labor of the period. Editor: I see how understanding its making enriches our understanding more than just admiring the form. Thanks!