Scale: 1:6. A contemporary full hull working model of a collapsible lifeboat, circa 1856. The model is complete with wooden frames hinged at the bow and stern, over which is stretched a painted canvas skin. Internally it is fitted with floorboards, thwarts hinged in the middle, and side benches which fold down flat.

Invented by the Reverend G. L. Berthon, these boats were both lightweight and strong and could be carried by ships where deck space and stowage was at a premium. This model shows the boat in its partially collapsed state and it would have been stowed vertically when fully collapsed. There is a 19th century plaque inscribed ‘Collapsible lifeboat. Invented by the Rev'd. G.L. Berthon in 1856 No 70. CL II DIV D’.

These boats were eventually used by both the Royal and Merchant Navies from the 1890s onwards and examples can be seen on other models in the Collection (see SLR0114, HMS ‘Boyne’ and SLR1273, HMS ‘Whiting’).