Animal Figurehead, c.1850 (wood, elm?)

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Animal Figurehead, c.1850 (wood, elm?)

7295734 Animal Figurehead, c.1850 (wood, elm?); 31.7x50.8 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Figurehead depicting the head of a polar bear from the Arctic exploration vessel HMS 'Resolute'. Originally the 'Ptarmigan', when bought by the Navy as a discovery vessel in 1850 she was first renamed 'Refuge' and then 'Resolute'. She was abandoned in Baffin Bay by Sir Edward Belcher's Franklin Search Expedition in September 1855 but was later salvaged by an American whaler from New Bedford, arriving home in December 1856. After being laid up at Chatham she was broken up there in 1879.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

Media ID 38431362

© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images

Arctic Arctic Circle North Pole Polar Bear Polar Bears Timbers Wood Material Art Fine Art Items Thing

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> Europe > United Kingdom > Heritage Sites > Maritime Greenwich

> Fine Art Finder > Artists > British School

EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking print captures the intricate details of an Animal Figurehead dating back to around 1850. Carved from wood, possibly elm, this figurehead depicts the head of a polar bear from the Arctic exploration vessel HMS 'Resolute'. Originally named 'Ptarmigan', this ship underwent several name changes before being abandoned in Baffin Bay by Sir Edward Belcher's Franklin Search Expedition in September 1855. Despite its abandonment, the 'Resolute' was salvaged by an American whaler and eventually returned home in December 1856. After years of service and history-making voyages, the ship was laid up at Chatham and ultimately broken up in 1879. The attention to detail on this animal figurehead is truly remarkable, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry of the time period. The polar bear's fierce expression and intricate features are brought to life through skilled carving techniques. This piece serves as a reminder of the brave explorers who ventured into uncharted territories in search of new discoveries. It also highlights the importance of preserving historical artifacts that tell stories of adventure and exploration from centuries past.

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