The Art Of Ship Modeling: A Historical Overview

The art of ship modeling, which involves the making of smaller versions or miniatures of ships, has been traced to the history of sea-going and sea affairs. More than ornamental features, these models serve as archival materials, sources of information and works of art. This paper analyses the development of ship models from a historical perspective focusing on the importance of the activity in different eras.

Ancient and Medieval Periods

Ship modeling traces as far back as the evolution of the earliest civilizations of Egypt, Greece and Rome. The archaeological records have shown that such societies made rough models of buildings and vessels from mud and wood. These models were used for offering purposes or even burial purposes as they were representative of a boat trip to another world, the afterlife.

Ship modeling popularity in Europe seems to have increased in the medieval period, the time ranging from the 13th century to 15 century. The Vikings were good seafarers and so they constructed models of their longboats which were rich in information about the shipbuilding and navigating skills of the people. Besides, magnificently detailed models of ships were commissioned by European rulers to celebrate naval victories and demonstrate dominion over the seas. Those models were beautifully decorated with gold and silver and rare stones, though it is clear that the main emphasis was on the craftsmanship.

The Renaissance to the Age of Exploration

A renewed vitality in regard to art and science was experienced during the Renaissance and thus there were the construction of more straight and beautiful ship models. Even in the Italian and Iberian shipwrights, there were highly developed modeling techniques, which led to the production of beautiful models of ships. Such models were an important factor in the Age of Exploration as they were used by explorers to strategize for sea excursions and showcase new ship designs to patrons.

The 17th century continued with the ship modeling renaissance begun in the Dutch Golden Age, and Amsterdam emerged as the center of the craft. The elegance of the Dutch merchant fleet is well captured in the Dutch ship models that were beautifully and accurately constructed. These types of models, however, were not just for pride and prestige but served to aid the progress of naval architecture.

The Industrial Revolution and Modern Developments

The Industrial Revolution was a turning point in the ship modeling storyline. Developments in the manufacturing processes caused mass production of ship modeling tasks to be made and therefore easy access by members of society. This development however saw a tendency to riots in terms of handmade artistry and more focus in the age of industrialization.

Finally, it can be said that ship modeling is a discipline that has undergone changes in centuries and therefore is associated with the technology, culture, and art of a particular age.  As we move on, companies such as OAS Ship Model Customized help in maintaining this age-old tradition, but in a modernized and inventive way.