Exceptional and large-size rigged silver plated model of a sandbagger with sails, American, circa 1890. The hull has a very accurate shape. The stem and keel are elaborately engraved with a fancy pattern. The hull has scribe planking and the exterior bulwarks has a fancy engraved pattern. The deck has scribed planking with applied silver chalks, blocks and at the stern a traveler. The model has a large oval cockpit with raised combing an an oval seat. Standing on the starboard rear cockpit seat is a sailor holding the tiller which is attached to the beautifully shaped rudder with engraved thistle and decorative patterns. There is a silver chain running from the chalk just forward of the mast to the port and starboard anchors hanging overboard. The spars are also made of silver and there is a banner flying from the peak of the top mast. The rigging is very detailed and is made of twisted silver wire. The sails are silver plated and have scribed seams and applied silver reef lines. There is an elaborate cluster of various size blocks supporting the gaff and jib. The model has a very elaborate base with square feet and applied conch shells. The sides of the base are 2 1/8 inches high and are set at an angle. At each corner is an applied dolphin and the sides of the base are engraved in elaborate patterns. The top and bottom of the sides have molded edges. The top of the base has a silver liner with beveled edge with conch shells running around the perimeter with a distance between them of 3 1/2 inches. The model is attached to the base at three points in the keel and at at two points on opposite sides of the hull. Next to the port and starboard hull supports are applied conch shell and seaweed silver decorations.
This is one of the finest and most elaborate examples of a silver plated model of the late nineteenth century. The time and skill required to build this model and base was monumental.
