Last updated at 11:44, Monday, 22 October 2012

A MYSTERIOUS model for one of the pioneer ships built in Barrow could top £12,000 when it is sold at auction later this month.

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The cased builder’s model for a steam yacht, thought to be built by the Barrow Shipbuilding Company in the 1870s, is part of a London sale by Charles Miller of maritime and scientific models, instruments and art on October 31.

The model has a striking resemblance to the steam, yacht Aries which was built by this company for Sir James Ramsden in 1873.

This example is not Aries but is felt by the auctioneers to be of the same era and from the Barrow yard which later became Vickers and is now part of BAE Systems

The model’s hull is carved in laminated fruitwoods, with ebonised topsides, brass glazed portholes and a finely carved figurehead.

It is presented in a case which is 37in (94cm) long.

The model of the unidentified yacht carries a pre-sale estimate of £8,000 to £12,000.

Also in the sale is a photograph and ephemera album relating to the Barrow-built warship HMS Powerful.

The album was put together between 1905 and 1911 and holds around 150 views of life and activities aboard and on excursions.

It is expected to sell for between £100 and £150.

Powerful is most famously associated with the Boer War and especially with helping lift the Siege of Ladysmith.

One of the smallest items in the sale is a 9ct gold brooch showing the submarine K5.

Many of the 17 K-class boats were built at Barrow, but not K5.

The brooch is expected to make £150 to £250.

First published at 16:44, Friday, 19 October 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk