Billet Head
early 19th century
Medium/TechniqueWood
Dimensions67.31 cm (26 1/2 in.)
Credit LineGift of John Templeman Coolidge
Accession number32.181
On View
Not on viewClassificationsSculpture
Collections
Billetheads have been used for centuries to ornament the stemhead under the bowsprit of a ship, and upright billetheads were typical on vessels of the early-nineteenth century. This exceptionally robust and sculptural example was salvaged from a wreck off Nova Scotia. Its surface, originally painted and gilded, shows the ravages of wind and water.
ProvenanceLent by J. Templeman Coolidge / February 27, 1929
19th century
1830 to mid-19th century
1875–80
1875–80
1875–80
1875–80
1875–80
1875–80
