Reclining Figures on the Vasa Warship
2018 © Maxim Tabachnik
Gun Deck of the VasaUpper Deck of VasaOrnate Panel from the Vasa WarshipRoman Soldier Figurehead on VasaReclining Figures on the Vasa WarshipCrowned Lions and Royal BustDavid with Harp and Moorish WarriorGrotesques and Soldiers on the VasaDecorated Gunport with LionGunport HatchRoyal Coat of Arms on the VasaStern Sculptures of the Vasa

Reclining Figures on the Vasa Warship

233
These reclining male figures (early 1620s) adorn the upper sterncastle of the warship Vasa. Their tranquil poses contrast with the ship’s martial function, possibly symbolizing vigilance in repose. As with much of the ship’s ornamentation, they express royal power through classical and biblical allegory.