For those familiar with figurehead collecting,
the name Richard Hunter is synonomous with knowledge, craftsmanship and quality in the areas of historical
research and restoration of these unique pieces of maritime art. Now for the first time Mr Hunter brings his knowledge
and expertise to the general public at the Spirit of the Seas exhibition at the International Festival
of the Sea from June 30th to July 3. For both the avid figurehead enthusiast and the casual admirer of these
magnificent artworks, this exhibition, at the historic dockyard in Portsmouth, England, promises to educate and
enlighten all who attend. Mr. Hunter's passion and expertise on the subject of figurehead history and restoration
enthrall all who listen and combined with a display of almost a dozen historic and replica ship figurehead, this
exhibition promises to be a once in a lifetime opportunity for visitors of all ages.
In addtion to simply
speaking on research and restoration , Mr. Hunter has designed this figurehead exhibit to be a hands on
experience of discovery with live demonstrations of figurehead carving provided by renowned wood artisan Andy Peters. Collections
of wood carving tools and restoration materials will also be on display along with a gallery of photographs of turn
of the century English figureheads from
Mr.Hunters extensive figurehead archive. Considering the depth and importance of the material being presented at this exhibition,
it promises to be one of the feature venues at this years festival. Glendale Nauticl is priviledged to have been able to contribute
to the success of this endevour and we hope that all of you who attend, as well as those who can only read about it here, come away from this exhibition with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the
fine art of ships figureheads.
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Among the many figureheads on display at the Spirit of the seas exhibition are such classics as the Cuniarda,
the St John Lawrence, the King George, the HMS Vengeance and the St Vincent, on loan from the private collection of Trevor Ellis.
In addition there are three unidentified figureheads from the museum of Hull on display along with the three unidentified females shown below,
currently for sale by the Trinity Marine company.
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