An impressively large, well carved 19th Century figurehead, the figure is believed to have been into service during the most important Age of Sailing, the 19th Century era of the Clipper Ships. This artifact has the large size and proper positioning of the plugs to have been the centerpiece of the bow on one of the great ships. While her identity is a mystery, we're inclined to believe her a mythological goddess in her flowing robe and statuesque presence, possibly Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty herself. English society found it fashionable to emulate the mythologies of the Greeks, a trend that started in the Renaissance Period and carried through the Victorian Age.
Fully dressed in a classical flowing robe dress with scalloped edges, colored sash, and geometric jewelry, the three primary colors are featured throughout her appearance. Her white dress is pleated, and she holds her left arm across her lower chest while her right hands pinches her clothing. She is elevated standing atop a scroll through her base. Her mythological ancestry becomes her with her icy blue eyes, and even inanimate, she possesses a regal, even noble demeanor and maternal strength.
Full sized figureheads of the quality and size are amongst the rarest of marine artifacts. Her authenticity is assured, yet much mystery remains to be hopefully discovered about her history and prominence in relation to one of the great merchant ships of the 19th Century. The wood plugs and mounting hardware is properly positioned and even with her years of service, she maintains a dignified and imposing figure.
Provenance: Richard Headley, Santa Barbara, California.
Size: 84 Inches High with a 24½ x 29 Inch Maximum Width and Depth
