Scale: 1:48. A contemporary full hull model of a merchantman (1840) built plank on frame. The port side is shown in the frame and clearly illustrates the quantity of timber required to build one of these vessels in frame alone. It also shows how the frames are constructed from individual timbers, such as floors and futtocks through to the top timbers and bulwarks. The starboard side is shown fully planked and a dark hardwood, probably ebony, has been used to highlight the upper and lower wales, keel, stem and stern posts. Both the main and poop decks lift away to reveal the internal construction and layout of the hull with the deck beams, hatch combings and knees all included. On deck are a number of fittings including, cargo hatches, capstan, pinrails, skylights and companionways, which are hinged to allow the removal of the decks from the hull.

This model illustrates the typical merchantman that would trade a variety of cargoes worldwide. It was not until the introduction of the composite hulls during the 1860s that the shape and size of these ships was to change radically.