I’ve said a thing or two about Provincetown, MA but I can’t get over the amazing, if not outlandish timberwork on the good ship, Kalmar Nyckel, in town during our stay. Today’s replica is in fact a faithful representation of the original built in 1625 for the Royal Swedish Navy. Described as a pirate ship, she managed in her busy schedule to also deliver 4 loads (starting 1638) of early settlers across the Atlantic to “New Sweden” before succumbing to wild storms and sinking at sea.
The Kalmar Nyckel is heavily dressed with mythical creatures to avert dangers lurking in the seas feared by a superstitious crew.
Figureheads could call in fair winds and following seas. The supurb figurehead on the Kalmar Nyckel, a lion, has two tails – one for the old ship and one for the new. The lion has been long associated with wealth, power and prosperity. In some cases, it also represents an association with royalty and was a favourite figurehead for warships.
Carved faces on the stern represent “sponsors” and persons of import who helped financially & otherwise in moving the ship building venture from a dream to reality. They are carved with whimsy and humour and painted in bold colours to ensure their message of prosperous ventures. Better than a rabbit's foot, wouldn't you say?
This lovely lady is a wonderful sight in our “grey suit” world; a reminder of our need for good luck charms – then as now. This message is not lost on the people of Delaware, as the Kalmar Nyckel is their appointed goodwill ambassador.
