Prisoner of War Bone Ship Model
Restoration & Conservation of a Rare Maritime Artefact
A finely crafted prisoner-of-war bone ship model, measuring just 294mm in length overall, entrusted to Polaris Models for meticulous restoration and conservation. This delicate piece, carved by skilled hands under extraordinary circumstances, represents a unique chapter in maritime history.
Purpose: Historic Model Restoration
Client: Hull Trinity House
Hull Trinity House is one of Britain’s oldest and most esteemed maritime institutions, with origins dating back to 1369. Founded to support the welfare and training of mariners, it now serves as a seafaring charity, a respected academy, and a guild of mariners.
From its historic headquarters in Kingston upon Hull, the organisation safeguards an extraordinary collection of maritime antiques, artworks, navigational instruments, and ship models — each a tangible link to centuries of seafaring history. Among its most notable traditions is the ceremonial “Trinity House Muster,” an event that has been held for over 200 years, honouring the city’s enduring maritime heritage.
Having previously restored the HMS Albion ship model for them, Hull Trinity House once again entrusted Polaris Models with a work of exceptional rarity — the meticulous restoration of a Prisoner of War Bone Ship Model, a delicate piece steeped in both craftsmanship and history.
The restoration began with the careful collection and secure transport of the prisoner-of-war bone ship model from Hull Trinity House to our workshop. Due to its extreme fragility and historical significance, every stage of the journey was planned to minimise risk.
Once in our care, the model underwent a detailed, component-by-component inspection. Each element — from the smallest carving to the most intricate rigging line — was assessed to understand its true condition.
The first stage of restoration involved cleaning and removing aged adhesive from the joints. Over the centuries, the glue had discoloured, leaving visible stains on the bone surfaces. These were gently treated and bleached to restore their natural tone without compromising the integrity of the material.
The original rigging was permanently damaged and beyond repair. Using historically accurate methods, we replaced it entirely, replicating the correct rope sizes and patterns in proportion to the model. Several masting components and fine decorative details — some no more than 1–2 millimetres in size — required delicate repairs, demanding steady hands and precision tools.
The model’s compact size and delicate construction meant progress was necessarily slow and meticulous, ensuring that no part of its intricate bonework was compromised.
The original display case, damaged beyond restoration, was replaced with a custom-built case in wenge wood — chosen for its deep, rich appearance that perfectly complements the model’s character. The new base and protective glazing were designed to harmonise with the model’s era, ensuring it could be safely displayed while preserving its authenticity.
Once completed, the restored model was placed in its new display case, carefully delivered back to Hull Trinity House, and installed in its original position within their distinguished maritime collection.
The prisoner-of-war bone ship model was fully restored and returned to its place of honour within Hull Trinity House. Through careful conservation and precision craftsmanship, we achieved a level of preservation that will safeguard this delicate artefact for generations to come.