A rare builder's half hull model of the 36 Linear Rater 'Barabel', designed by Alfred Mylne of Glasgow for Olympian Charles MacIver.
The half hull is made from solid timber and painted cream to the waterline with painted caveta and black below, with a black deck. Bearing an ivorine plaque inscribed: 'Mr C. MacIver's "Barabel" 36LR designed by A. Mylne, Glasgow' on a mahogany backboard, set with 56 silver regatta prize flags, circa 1902–1904.
The half hull comes together with a framed photograph of 'Barabel' at sea.
Who was Alfred Mylne?
Alfred Mylne was apprenticed to the famous Scottish shipbuilders Napier, Shanks, and Bell. He then worked as a draftsman for G.L. Watson, where he was involved in drawing up the plans of the Royal Yacht "Britannia," the magnificent racing cutter that was first owned by the Prince of Wales [later King Edward VII] and which later passed to his son, King George V.
Mylne set up his own office in 1896, which almost certainly makes the firm that still bears his name the world's oldest yacht design business in continuous production. Mylne immediately established a reputation as a designer of winning yachts and was one of the people behind the most successful yacht handicap rules of all time - the International Metre Rule. Mylne's designs were always admired for their elegance, and this was one of the attractions that drew owners to commission cruisers of every size from his design board.
Who was Charles MacIver - owner of Barabel?
Mr Charles MacIver (1866–1935) was born in Liverpool, the son of politician David MacIver. He was considered one of the best amateur yachtsmen of his day, in fact equal to that of the best professional skippers, and won a silver medal in the 12-metre class at the 1908 Olympics. Alfred Mylne designed ‘Barabel’ for him in 1902, and in three seasons together, MacIver and Barabel won fifty-six prizes.
The Yachting World. (Sept 4th, 1896) –
‘Descended from a family which has been connected with the sea for generations, it seems but natural to find that Charles MacIver has a strong fancy for yachting in all its varied branches.’
The Yachting and Boating Monthly. (May 1908) –
‘Amongst yachtsmen of experience it is generally considered that there are a few amateurs whose comprehensive knowledge of racing and personal skill in steering and commanding a yacht in a sailing match is equal, if not really superior, to that of the best professional. Were the names of this select company recalled they would undoubtedly include Mr Charles MacIver, whose racing career extends over a period of thirty two years.’
Half Hull Dimensions – 75 cm/29½ inches x 19 cm/7½ inches
Framed Photo Dimensions – 65 cm/25½ inches x 51 cm/20 inches
Product Reference: 11608
