CAPTAINS QUARTERS

From the earliest times the stems of vessels have been decorated with some form of figurehead. Such adornments have fallen out of general use, but until recently seaman have attached great importance to the figurehead of his ship. The figurehead embodied the spirit of a ship and was originally believed to placate the gods of the sea and ensure a safe voyage. Almost every bow had a carved figure looking down at the waves, and the variety was immense. Today they are an evocative and decorative reminder of the bygone days of sailing ships.

Variations of this commonly used figurehead mermaid could be found on merchant vessels as well as ships of war. This one was hand carved using the same techniques as in the days of old.

LIKE ON THE SHIP BRITANNIA