About this piece
back to topAn intricate early 20th century model of the SS ‘Alexandria’ within a glazed diorama case from the collection of the late John Ritchie (1944-2025).
One of two similar pieces we are selling from his collection, Ritchie was an eminent figure in the world of maritime antiques for over 40 years. In his lifetime, he served in the Merchant Navy and travelled the globe, developing a passion for maritime collecting and history. In later years, he became proprietor of Books Afloat in Weymouth, a second-hand bookshop dedicated to all things nautical.
This cased waterline ship model showcases the SS ‘Alexandria’ in intricate detail. It is fully rigged with a planked deck and various fittings, the hull painted black with red beneath. Flags fly from the masts and smoke emits from the double smoke stacks. Two figures can even be seen manning the bridge!
The pine diorama has a tapered top and is fronted with glass, the outer frame painted with a gilded finish reminiscent of a work of art. It will make a brilliant display piece for a collector of nautical antiques and maritime curiosities!
Another similar diorama of the SS ‘Alexandria’ can be found under Stock No. 38338.





