Polly Cornthwaite
Senior Cataloguer
Lot 9TP
A Fine Keith Townsend 1:24 Scale Model Of The 1871 Steam Ship 'Raven', English, Modern, the model 12in x 35in x 7 1/2in (30.5cm x 89cm x 19cm)
the case 16in x 43in x 14 1/2in (41cm x 109cm x 37cm)
the case 16in x 43in x 14 1/2in (41cm x 109cm x 37cm)
Amended
25 – 26 October 2022, 14:00 BST
London, Knightsbridge£3,000 - £5,000
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Rhyanon Demery
Head of Sale
A Fine Keith Townsend 1:24 Scale Model Of The 1871 Steam Ship 'Raven', English, Modern,
the finely detailed model with hull painted black below the waterline, yellow and white above, with four-bladed brass screw and six inset portholes on either side, the deck with tiller, steam boiler, ventilators, hand pump, and crane, the interior housing electric motor operating rudder, propeller, and crane, supported on two brass plaques above green slate base, with metal plaque engraved with the name, date and history of the vessel, within glazed brass display case, on mahogany base board, together with remote control and accompanying certificate and documents,
the model 12in x 35in x 7 1/2in (30.5cm x 89cm x 19cm)
the case 16in x 43in x 14 1/2in (41cm x 109cm x 37cm)
the model 12in x 35in x 7 1/2in (30.5cm x 89cm x 19cm)
the case 16in x 43in x 14 1/2in (41cm x 109cm x 37cm)
Footnotes
The full size vessel 'Raven' was the working cargo boat for the Furness Railway Company from 1871, its name inspired by the biblical tale of Elijah being fed by ravens. Its typical cargo comprised coal, timber, and farm produce, but in the winter months it also served as an efficient icebreaker. Although the working career of 'Raven' ended in 1922 she continued to be operated and restored, even steaming on her 100th birthday in 1971.
'Raven' holds the accolade of being the oldest vessel on the Lloyds' Register of Yachts with its original machinery, and the second oldest vessel listed overall.
Saleroom notices
The deck of the present model lifts to reveal a fully built interior. Its load comprises five barrels, eight crates, eight lengths of rope, and anchor with chain, together with the internal workings and power supply for the operational model. Further features include the replica crane, four glass deck lights, and fully detailed boiler and boiler casing. Keith Townsend is a renowned maker, responsible for intricate scale models of some of the most beloved and historic vessels from the 19th and 20th centuries.