Search the collections

Model - Sailing Boat, Malayan, 1880 Reg. No: ST 018258

Summary:: Traditional Malayan single-masted sailing vessel. Partly decked and steered by rudder with a palm leaf awning aft.

This model was displayed at the 1880-1881 Melbourne International Exhibition and was donated to the Museum by the Commissioners for the Straits Settlements in 1881.

Boat models such as these were exhibited by colonial governments to showcase the skills of indigenous populations and as markers of their differences from Western peoples. However they were also used by indigenous peoples to maintain and pass down traditional skills and knowledge as they became less frequently used with the advent of colonialism.
Description:: Wooden model of a traditional Malayan sailing vessel. It is partly decked, with a single-mast and is steered by rudder. There is a palm leaf awning aft.
Acquisition Information:: Donation from Straits Settlement Commissioners, 1881

Discipline:	Technology
Dimensions:	175 mm (Height), 140 mm (Width), 540 mm (Length)

Tagged with:	boats, exhibitions melbourne international 1880-1881
Themes this item is part of:	Royal Exhibition Building Collection, Public Life & Institutions Collection, Transport Collection
Primary Classification:	WATER TRANSPORT
Secondary Classification:	Rowing & Paddle Craft
Tertiary Classification:	model traditional craft
Place & Date Exhibited:	Exhibition: 1880 International, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 1880-1881