These hard lightweight fibrous material figureheads are faithful reproductions of an original ships' mermaid maindenhead.
Measures: 34" tall by 14" wide by 14" deep and weighs approximately 5 lbs.
The size of this figurehead is rather large. Just right for the truly dramatic setting. Excellent value.
Although some choose to hang them outdoors during mild weather seasons, figureheads are made for interior use. We recommend bringing them them in during harsh weather months.
The figurehead embodied the spirit of a ship and was originally believed to placate the gods of the sea and ensure a safe voyage. Almost every prow had a carved figure looking down at the waves. This one is reproduced of a hard lightweight fibrous material. Original figureheads were a carved wooden decoration, usually female or bestial, during the 16th to the 19th centuries. Although earlier ships had some form of bow ornamentation (e.g. the Viking ships of ca. 800-1100 CE), the general practice was introduced with the galleons of the 16th century.
Ready to hang, they make novel gifts, theming projects, movie props and are guaranteed to charm seamen and landlubbers alike.
There is absolutely no similarity between these superb reproductions and the comical plastic copies one finds in the store. These are molded in a hard lightweight fibrous material with the look and feel of old wood. The cracks, splinters and worm holes would fool a woodpecker!
Made in USA.
RE Paint recommendations: We use lacquer based paint with an airbrush. The figurehead will take any kind of paint. If planning to use outdoors, use an exterior paint and finish with a generous coat of outdoor varnish to preserve the colors.
