Scale: 1:38.4. This model illustrates how a two-decker, 74-gun ship of the line was constructed in frame prior to being planked. Every frame is made from several pieces of timber starting with the floors at the keel, the futtocks from the bilge to the bulwarks and finally, the top timbers up to the rails. The frames are held in position longitudinally by long thin timbers known as ribbands. These are then removed as the planks are fastened to the frames.

This model was made to the order of Sir Robert Seppings, Chief Surveyor of the Navy. It has been constructed in two halves and shows a ship framed in the conventional fashion on the port side whilst the starboard side (SLR0676) is framed in timbers of a lighter scantling.

By Sepping’s day, the perennial timber problem had become acute. To help overcome this, Seppings put his proposals forward for the use of more, but lighter frames to the Navy Board on 5 November 1812. One year later, the Navy Board recommended the proposals to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty on 15 February 1814, who subsequently approved them on the 28 February 1814. Both models are complete with handwritten removable plaques giving details regarding this proposal by Seppings.