Scale: 1:48. A contemporary waterline model of a floating sheer hulk (1800) mounted on a painted baseboard. The square and shallow hull is complete with a variety of equipment on deck, in particular are four large capstans used for working the sheer legs and the mooring chains over the bow and stern. The sheer legs themselves have been made in a metal tubing and with the associated rigging, it is clear that this model was used to illustrate and possibly train workers in the Royal Dockyards the process of stepping and un-stepping masts on ships afloat.

The use of sheer hulks for this process dates back to the early 17th century where old and redundant ships were converted and permanently moored in the river. It is important to note that when a new ship was built, it was too dangerous to step the lower masts before launching, as it would make the hull unstable, hence the requirement to carry out this process after launching.

The model also includes hatch gratings, windows at the bow and stern as well as two companionways on deck, which would suggest that there might have been some basic accommodation on board. The number ‘81’ has been associated with this model but is has not been possible to identify this with any particular location or dockyard.