The Ideal Face of 17th-to 19th-Century Sailors Depicted in Figureheads

Abstract

In this review, the author explores the commonalities among female figureheads and analyze what their faces symbolize. Common themes in figurehead design included mythological figures, female figures, and animals. Female figures commonly used are: goddesses from mythology (Athena, Venus, Diana, Amphitrite), historical or royal figures (Queen Victoria, Boudica), allegorical figures (Fortuna, Hope), sirens and mermaids, and others (Nannie). Many of them are depicted with graceful or beautiful features, particularly in the case of goddesses such as Venus or allegorical figures like Liberty. Others (Boudica, Nannie), highlight attributes of strength, courage, or even supernatural power. Collectively, these female figureheads symbolize a blend of beauty, power, protection, and mystery. These figures were crafted to embody the cultural and aesthetic ideals of their time. Their graceful, beautiful faces likely served as reminders of home, comfort, and love, embodying the softness and gentleness that starkly contrasted with the ocean's harshness. These figureheads often represented strength, wisdom, and guidance; qualities highly valued by sailors embarking on perilous journeys. The features of these were crafted to command respect and convey a sense of safeguarding, as sailors regarded them as the "soul" of the ship. The idealized faces of sirens, mermaids, or goddesses offered sailors a dreamlike connection to mythical realms, far removed from the harsh realities they faced daily. Thereafter, female figureheads likely represented sailors' perceptions of the "ideal face" in the 17th to 19th centuries. By analyzing this, plastic surgeons might result in surgical outcomes that emphasize the concept of the "wild woman against the waves of life."