Half models
Research into the half models in the Naval Models Collection
There are more than 300 half models in the Rijksmuseum’s Naval Models Collection. The purpose of their scientific examination is to enhance knowledge about the development of Dutch naval shipbuilding and about the role that half models played in that process.
About the project
The Rijksmuseum’s Naval Collection consists of some 1,600 objects relating to Dutch shipbuilding and maritime construction. Almost a quarter of them are half models, that is to say models of half a vessel along the longitudinal axis, that are often cut away to reveal the construction of the hull. Little is known about the role that these models played in 18th- and 19th-century Dutch shipbuilding. Of more than half of the collection, it is unknown when and at which shipyard the models were made. Scientific research is expected to increase knowledge about these half models.
Aim of the project
Systematic technical examination makes an important contribution to the still limited knowledge about the half models in the Rijksmuseum’s collection. Various analytical techniques can be employed to make an inventory of the materials and construction methods used. Dendrochronological research of the wooden supports to which the models are attached will make it possible to date and establish the geographical origin of the oak. Combined with archival research, this can yield fresh insights into aspects of their history, conservation and educational function. A chronological and geographical classification of the many half models in the collection will enhance knowledge about the evolution of Dutch naval shipbuilding and will facilitate comparison with collections in other museums.
Staff
Tirza Mol
Associate Furniture Conservator
t.mol@rijksmuseum.nl
Jeroen ter Brugge
Curator for Maritime Collections
j.ter.brugge@rijksmuseum.nl
Marta Domínguez-Delmás
Guest Researcher
m.dominguez.delmas@rijksmuseum.nl
Paul van Duin
Head of Wood and Furniture Conservation
p.van.duin@rijksmuseum.nl
Partners and sponsors
This project is made possible thanks to the Van Liemt-Gratama Fund/ Rijksmuseum Fund.
Related projects
Publications
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A. Hoving, Modellen vertellen. Bijzondere verhalen uit de Marinemodellenkamer van het Rijksmuseum, Franeker: Uitgeverij van Wijnen, 2012.
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D. Kuh Jakobi, 'Review of the Ship Model Conservation Course: Understanding Techniques for Research and Conservation at the Rijksmuseum', ICOM-CC Theory and History Working Group Newsletter 21 (2017).
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D. Kuh Jakobi and G. Smith, 'We're all in the same boat: Using ship models to promote collaboration', in: Museological Review: The Global Microphone 20 (2016), pp. 27-35.
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H. Stevens (ed.), The Art of Technology. The Navy Model Collection in the Amsterdam Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam/Wormer, 1995.
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A. Lemmers, Techniek op schaal. Modellen en het technologiebeleid van de Marine 1725-1885, Amsterdam (1996).