As a history of decorative naval architecture, this unique book takes a well-illustrated look at a fascinating variety of shipboard ornamentations, systematically explaining where ideas and forms originated through the ages, and how nations influenced one another in their designs. While some European ships are considered, the focus is primarily upon English vessels -- from vintage Elizabethan galleons to Lord Nelson's Victory, built in 1765.
A detailed chapter on figureheads examines carved ornaments at the fore of ships ancient and modern, among them a god-like figure and swan on...