La Salamandre
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Galliots are ships that carry mortar bombs. They first appeared in 1680 and were principally used to bombard ports. During the reign of Louis XIV, twelve of these vessels were constructed in the years until 1696. Afterwards, the significance of these vessels diminished. In 1725, one finds records of three galliots constructed in Toulon, in 1734 two more were constructed in Brest, and in 1752 work started again on two constructions in Toulon, one of which is the Salamandre. She is equipped with two 12-pound plate cast mortars, with a fixed trajectory of 45°. The utilisation of this weapon necessitated a robust and heavy boat. At the moment of firing, the framework is subject to considerable stress. The rigging, is unusual: no foremast, the main topmast is placed at the back, the mainstay is an iron chain capable of withstanding fire, the other ropework between the bowsprit and the main mast is taken down during firing. The galliots presented a real force during the siege of ports. |
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Modelist: Pierre Mallière. Date of construction: 1984-1986
For a detailed study, two 1:36 scale models were constructed simultaneously: one showing the framework and one complete hull.
- The framework study shows the strong wooden cross-section necessary for this ship, which was justified by the shocks generated by firing the mortar. The part that is most representative is that destined for the construction of the mortars, the rest of the woodwork is more traditional. One can see the platform supporting the mortars, composed of strong pieces of intersecting wood. The upright knees intended to close in the foc'sle bulkhead are in place.
- The complete model shows the mortars in place. Between them there is a space permitting them to be stowed while sailing. Above, an assembly of boards is ready to receive a rope bridge on which rest tarpaulins, fixed by staples to the walls.
All this information is detailed in Jean Boudriot's monograph.
These models were part of the first exhibition organised by Jean Boudriot at the Musée de la Marine in Paris in 1986.
- Framework in apple
- Planking, decks and masts in pear
- Mortars and canons in brass
- Ornementation in boxwood
- Fastenings in iron
- Metal parts in silver
- Poop lantern in brass
- Rigging in flax