Half Model of a Sloop of War c. 1800

This half model of a sloop of war, made by an anonymous artist, offers a glimpse into the complex socio-political landscape of maritime power. These vessels were instruments of exploration, trade, and unfortunately, also of war and the transatlantic slave trade. Half-models were used as guides for building the full-sized ships. This was during a time when naval strength was a direct reflection of a nation's economic and political power, and therefore deeply connected to global colonial ambitions. This model, stripped down to its essential form, prompts us to consider the layers of history it represents: the ingenuity of shipbuilders, the countless journeys across oceans, and the human stories—both triumphant and tragic—that unfolded aboard these ships. While it showcases the craftsmanship involved in naval construction, it also stands as a stark reminder of the human cost associated with exploration, exploitation, and conflict. Although we cannot know the identity or the intentions of the maker, it's a powerful artifact, laden with the weight of its historical context.