Scale: 1:48. A full hull model of the ‘Martin’ (1653), a 12-gun sixth-rate sloop. The model is decked, equipped and fully rigged with sails set including flags. Based on contemporary drawings and recorded dimensions of the ship, it is frequently referred to as the ‘Martin Galley’. The ‘Martin’ is recorded as being designed and built by the shipwright Sir John Tippetts and was launched at Portsmouth in 1652. Measuring 64 feet along the keel and 19 feet in the beam, it had a burden tonnage of 127. The only recorded information about this vessel is that it was sold in 1667.

This model clearly illustrates 17th-century rig, notably the triangular lateen on the mizzenmast and the vertical sprit topmast at the end of the bowsprit. The lower sails, or courses, are complete with bonnets which are additional strips of canvas laced the lower edge of the sail to increase the area in fine weather or to reduce it in the event of the wind increasing. The term ‘galley’ in the 17th century generally referred to a ship that was built with fine lines for speed and which could be rowed should there be little or no wind.