Model of the brigantine LEON

Model Maker John Wright

Date1981 - 1994

Object number00019510

NameModel

MediumTimber, cotton, paint, copper alloy

DimensionsOverall: 800 x 1020 x 348 mm, 3.2 kg

ClassificationsModels

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from John Wright

Terms

DescriptionJohn Wright built this model of the two-masted Norwegian brigantine LEON. Made using fruitwood timber, cotton, paint and copper alloy, the plank-on-frame model is complete and fully rigged.HistoryThis model of the Pacific timber carrier LEON is at 1:48 scale and was built using body plans, deck layout and hull lines produced by the famous model maker Harold A Underhill. This fruitwood (preferred for the fine grain and durability) model represents the 302 ton brigantine built at Laurvig, Norway in 1880. Underhill himself describes the LEON as 'a very pretty little brigantine, with lofty sail plan and extremely pleasing lines'. He goes on to say that his 'drawing should appeal to those wishing to construct a really first-class plant-built hull, without the elaborate carving and ornamentation of the Naval vessel'. John Wright made the model using the plank-on-frame Navy Board construction method, which is almost identical to those used by the actual shipwrights who constructed the full size ship. Each frame is built up out of individual sections of timber reflecting the various futtocks of the ship; these frames are then secured to the keel by metal fastenings. The deck partitions, deck beams, deck pillars and knees are then secured, followed by partial fitting of the ceiling, decks and outer planking. Built in Norway in 1880, LEON had several owners between 1882 and 1907. In 1902 the rig was cut down to a schooner. Shortly before Christmas, 1915, while carrying coat from Granton, Scotland to the vessel's home port in Porsgrund, Norway, the vessel developed a leak, which could not be controlled. On 30 October 1915, LEON was abandoned, and sank two weeks later. SignificanceThis ship model is significant as a fully rigged scale representation of the late-19th century brigantine LEON. It was constructed using methods similar to those used by the shipwrights who built the LEON.