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Experience a Journey Through Sea Saga with London Sightseeing Taxi Tours
Immerse yourself into maritime history while exploring London’s beloved maritime attraction – Cutty Sark. Here lies the world’s largest collection of merchant ship figureheads, the Long John Silver Figurehead Collection. This spectacular display is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, literature aficionados, and those who appreciate artistry.
Want to enjoy it all in style? London Sightseeing Taxi Tours, is here to make your experience exhilarating with their luxury black cab tours.
The Cutty Sark & Long John Silver Figurehead Collection
Enter the realm of glorious maritime history as you step inside the Cutty Sark gallery, home to the Long John Silver Figurehead Collection. Named after Sydney Cumbers, an admirer of the iconic pirate from Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Treasure Island’, the collection amassed by Cumbers whispers tales from the days when ship figureheads were more than simple ornate elements.
Figureheads, made from sturdy teak or oak, often had an emotional and superstitious connection with the crew who considered these carvings as a protective entity. Looking at the varied exhibit, it wouldn’t be hard for today’s spectators to get a sense of that deep-rooted belief.
Discover the Era of Merchant Vessels with Figureheads
The diverse collection serves as a historical testament to the 19th century merchant vessels. Deciphering a precise chronicle of these figureheads can be challenging, often due to the lost history of ships they were once part of. Some of these figureheads might stand as the lone survivor of their respective ships.
A noteworthy aspect of this wondrous collection lies in its depiction of important personalities and myths through figureheads. Initially, these figureheads were formidable figures, aiming to scare away foes. However, by the 18th century, they morphed into representations of the ship owner’s family members, renowned individuals, or significant personalities from historical or mythical accounts.
Voices from History — Etched in Wood
Long John Silver figurehead collection showcases varied characters spawned by salty sea legends, remarkable historical events, and richly woven pieces of literature. Be it an alluring Roman soldier, the famed humanitarian Elizabeth Fry, or the medieval Arthurian knight – Sir Lancelot, each figurehead tells a story of its own.
Interestingly, the synthetically generated Victorian England is on display as wooden renditions of famous personalities such as Florence Nightingale, General Gordon, Disraeli, and Gladstone. Many unidentified figures, typically mesmerizing women likened to the ‘Rising Sun,’ add an element of mystery to the collection, their origin often lost with the ship they once adorned.
Embarking Your Maritime Journey — London Sightseeing Taxi Tours
Experience this spectacular collection in the heart of London, comfortably and in style with London Sightseeing Taxi Tours. Their black cab rides ensure your journey to enlightenment is as graceful and smooth as the rides of the ships these figureheads once graced.
With rich history, mesmerizing artistry, and unique figures, the Long John Silver Collection at Cutty Sark serves as a treasure trove of maritime folklore and historical narratives. So, book yourself a ride with London Sightseeing Taxi Tours today, and let the London charm spin its magic as you embark on an unforgettable voyage through history.”