Psyche (1862)

Scale: 1:48. A plan showing the bow, headrail, head and proposed figurehead for Psyche (1862), a despatch vessel built as a yacht for Commanders-in-Chief.

The figurehead is a three=quarter length bust of a female with butterfly wings, facing forward. She is wearing a close-fitting dress with a pleated skirt. Psyche has a star in her hair above her right eye. Her hair has been gathered up above her hears and tied at the back. The star represents her ascent into heaven where she eventually marries her lover (Cupid).

The plan includes Admiralty Letter Book number S2390. /61.

Object Details

ID: DIC0031
Type: Technical drawing
Display location: Not on display
Date made: 1861
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Overall: 185 mm x 234 mm