November 17, 2020 Early Arms & Militaria: Age of Exploration, Empire & Revolution
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/17/2020
An exceptionally well-rendered, miniature Admiralty-type model of H.M. Frigate Diana, date and modeler unknown, but appears to be antique, possibly late 19th or early 20th century. It is of plank-on-frame construction, with carved figurehead, blue and gilt-trimmed stern and with black strakes, trim and gunwales. It measures 3-1/2" x 11" x 3" and is housed in a glass-paneled case 6" x 13-3/4" x 6". The model comes with a framed sheet from the 11 March 1865 issue of the Illustrated London News showing ship models at Kensington Museum (now the V&A), including Diana and Victory, along with a copy of David White's 1988 book, “The Frigate Diana”. The original HMS Diana was the second of the Artois class frigates designed by Sir John Henslow. Launched in 1794, she had a long and active service, most of which was spent in patrol, convoy and blockade duties. The highlight of her career was in August 1795 when on patrol duty with her sister ship Seahorse and the frigate Unicorn, they captured the Dutch East Indiaman Cromhout, another merchant ship and her escort. 3 items. CONDITION: Very good and complete; rear glass panel of display case missing. JLK
Paperwork
"The Frigate Diana" by White, Provenance.