Hardly an issue of M.A.D. passes without an account of just a few of these thefts. The situation is strikingly similar to Pre-Columbian artifacts, in which so much of the real stuff has been looted from graves. They are no better than fences for stolen goods and help rob us of our heritage. I don't know the solution, but there is certainly a serious problem. The vessel depicted appears to be a sixth rater of at least 1790 or possibly a merchant ship.
Ornamentation shown here is minimal, and apparently there is no figurehead either.
In it, I will explain why we are no longer participating in shows. I believe that these reasons have a direct bearing on the proliferation of multi-dealer shops. Multis do have their problems. All case shops tend to be sterile and customer interaction with the objects for sale is minimal. Yes, some do carry unlabelled reproductions and, my least favorite, craft and gift items all mixed in together.