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“This book will undoubtedly become the standard reference for anyone who might need information on Royal Navy figureheads. It is also an attractive addition to anyone’s naval bookshelf.”
— The Northern Mariner/Le marin du nord, October 2012
The first figureheads that were carved to represent the names of British warships appeared during the reign of Henry VIII; the last ones were carved in the early years of the twentieth century. During the intervening three hundred and fifty years it is estimated that some 5000 ships of the Royal Navy carried a figurehead of some description. This book follows the development of these diverse carvings, examining how the figurehead carvers interpreted the names and the symbolism incorporated in their designs. Lavishly illustrated with much previously unpublished material, the book explores the wide range of subjects that were represented.
David Pulvertaft, a retired rear admiral, is the co-author of Warship Figureheads of Portsmouth.
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