HAND MADE SCALE MODEL CORACLE RIVER BOAT ENGLISH 1982 SIGNED E. EUSTACE ROGERS

Beautifully crafted scale model coracle, made by Eustace Rogers and signed “E. ROGERS 1982 IRONBRIDGE.” Eustace Rogers was one of the most famous makers of the traditional coracle. On his passing, BBC News referred to him as “one of England’s last coracle makers.”

The model uses the same design and materials as a full-sized coracle, including lacquered wood (probably willow), canvas, and suede leather. It is in outstanding condition, and even includes a matching oar or paddle. It is 11 inches long, 8 3/4 inches wide, and about 3 inches deep. The hull is sealed with painted canvas in the same method used in full-sized coracles. A very similar model can be seen on the website of the Coracle Society.

Also from the website of the Coracle Society: “The Ironbridge coracle is a coracle type used on the River Severn in Ironbridge, Shropshire. The Rogers family are probably the most famous coracle making family, with the family making coracles in their hut on the banks of the River Severn under the shadow of the Iron Bridge for generations, until the death of Eustace Rogers in 2003. The Ironbridge coracle is a bowl-shaped craft and has been used for a variety of uses throughout its history, including transportation and fishing - both using nets and eel or night lines. They were also used for securing driftwood, removing felled timber from the river during times of flooding to prevent danger if left to float downstream.”

This is a rare, museum-quality piece, signed by the premier practitioner of coracle making