A mid 19th Century three-quarter length Merchantman's figurehead possibly from the Ford Jenkins

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A mid 19th Century three-quarter length Merchantman's figurehead possibly from the Ford Jenkins
in the form of a crowned lady, semi-clad in a toga, finished in white, flesh-tone, black and gold, the back with securing eye -- 47in. (119.cm.)
See illustration

Lot Essay

Originally this figurehead would have had out-stretched arms secured to the sockets provided; it was common practice to remove these before a long voyage to save expensive replacements should the vessel encounter a storm. Information on the Ford Jenkins is inconclusive and the Merchant Naval List for 1862-71 provides only for a Ford and it is possible that Jenkins was the owners name.

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