Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Swedish Galleon
Artifact IDMO 1943.233.2
Object Type
Model
Maker
Unknown
Gifter
Lester E. Jacobi
Date16th - 17th century
Mediumsilver, plastic, wood, velvet
Dimensionsoverall H 21 in x W 23 in x D 10 in (53.3 cm x 58.4 cm x 25.4 cm )
Physical DescriptionAn ornate silver model (reputed to be from the 1600s) of an unidentified Swedish galleon. The three-masted ship has unfurled sails impressed with images of leaves and fish and four different coats of arms. On one side of the hull are the nude figures of mermaids and merchildren. The other side of the hull depicts two wild horses fighting a man. Three lanterns, each with a red plastic insert, are placed on the ship: one at the bow, one at the stern, and one on the quarterdeck. A fierce looking sea creature protrudes from the stern. Four other sea creatures form a stand, attaching the model to a velvet-covered wood base.
Historical NoteThis model was purchased in 1934 in Stockholm, Sweden by Lester E. Jacobi, President of the Schenley Distillers Corporation of New York City. Mr. Jacobi presented it to President Roosevelt on May 8, 1943.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteDeposited at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum by Franklin D. Roosevelt, June 1, 1943. It was donated as a bequest of FDR to the Library in 1947.
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesShip Models (National Archives Identifier 782457)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.In Collection(s)
Not on view
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