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Description :
An impressive and highly detailed 20th-century wooden ship model representing La Gloire, the celebrated French frigate launched at Saint-Malo in 1778. Of substantial proportions, the model has been carefully assembled and finished by hand, recreating the elegant lines and elaborate rigging of an 18th-century French warship.
La Gloire belonged to the Iphigénie class of frigates designed by French naval engineer Léon-Michel Guignace. Launched on 9 July 1778, she entered service with the French Royal Navy the same year and was originally armed with 32 guns. Her career became closely connected with the American Revolutionary War. In September 1782, while sailing for America alongside the French frigate L’Aigle, La Gloire took part in an engagement with the British 74-gun HMS Hector. She subsequently operated in American waters and later transported French troops back to Europe. Her long career under the French flag ended in 1795, when she was captured by the British and taken into Royal Navy service.
The model itself is constructed from assorted woods, including beech and walnut, with finely laid hull planking and numerous individually worked details. Three fully rigged masts carry natural-coloured fabric sails, wooden spars and an exceptionally intricate arrangement of textile cordage, rope ladders and miniature pulley blocks.
The deck is populated with miniature cannons, hatches, ladders, railings, anchors and a tender boat, while the stern is particularly attractive, with its elaborate painted gallery and architectural ornamentation. A decorative figurehead and colourful period-style flags complete the composition.
Wood, fabric, textile cord and painted metal fittings are skilfully combined throughout. The slight irregularities and gentle patina are consistent with the hand-assembled nature and vintage character of the model. Measuring 85 cm across, it has a particularly impressive presence and would make a striking decorative piece for a library, study or collection of maritime and naval objects.
Dimensions:
H. 66 cm / 26 in
W. 85 cm / 33.5 in
D. 29 cm / 11.4 in