Head of a States yacht RMG PW6659, circa 1686

Head of a states yacht this is one of a group of five drawings in the nmm’s collection of details of dutch yachts drawn rapidly in pen and ink over preliminary graphite. Their style and subject suggest they belong to the period of van de velde’s visit to holland in 1685-6. The drawing, which is unsigned, depicts the stem and head probably of a states yacht. The figurehead is a seahorse (hippocampus) supporting a small shield bearing the arms of zeeland. Behind the horse, with back resting against the stem, there is a small sea-god blowing a conch. Head of a states yacht. Date: circa 1686. Dimensions: Sheet: 290 x 231 mm; Mount: 554 mm x 402 mm. Collection: Fine art.