Scale: 1:48. A contemporary skeleton model of a 58-gun two-decker ship of the line (circa 1650). Although this model cannot be identified as any particular ship, it is the oldest ‘true-scale’ authenticated model in the Museum and probably in Europe as well. Built in the ‘Navy board’ style whereby the hull frames have been assembled in a stylised fashion, rather than as actually built, the planking has been omitted to show the construction and internal layout of the hull. The proportions of the model agree closely with the third-rate frigate built during the Commonwealth period. However, the Stuart coat of arms displayed prominently on the stern would suggest the model was made, or the arms added, after the Restoration in 1660.