A 1:65 SCALE MODEL OF THE IMPERIAL RUSSIAN PROTECTED CRUISER SVIETLANA [1896]

with carved laminated pine hull, planked cherry wood decks with fittings including main and secondary armament, boats in davits, anchors with chains, open bridge, deck rails, emergency bridge with triple helm and other details, mounted on green baize display base with wood-bound plexi-glass cover with plate. Overall measurements -- 26½ x 60 x 12in. (67 x 152.5 x 30.5cm.)

Built in France by Forges et Chantiers de la Gironde, although technically a protected cruiser, her armour was replaced with luxurious fittings and she was used as a Royal Yacht for Grand Duke Alexei Romanov (younger brother of Tsar Alexander III) for state functions. When the Russo-Japanese War flared up in 1904-5 he volunteered her to reinforce the Russian Pacific Fleet being assembled to steam half way around the world. Massively overloaded with supplies and coal and fitted with wireless and Hotchkiss guns, she lead a squadron at the Battle of Tsushima. Out-gunned and out-classed, they fell back and then tried to flee. Svietlana, who had been damaged, was caught off the island of Ulleungdo early the next morning and fought until her engines were damaged and she was ablaze. Her officers scuttled her rather than surrender and she went down with colours flying, her survivors being saved by the Japanese cruiser America Maru.

This lot will be available for viewing at Imperial Road

Condition Report

Fine overall conditioon.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.