Christopher Columbus flagship a maritime auction bonus

A model of Christopher Columbus’s flagship, the Santa Maria, should bring maritime buffs running to E.J. Ainger’s next auction from 9.30am Tuesday April 14 at 433 Bridge Road, Richmond.

The Santa Maria, probably a medium sized nao (carrack), was the largest of the three vessels Columbus used in 1492 during his first exploratory voyage to the Americas.

The other expedition vessels were the smaller caravel-type ships La Nina (The Girl) and La Pinta (The Painted One).

All were second or third hand modest sized merchant vessels (about the size of a modern yacht) and never meant for exploration.

In May last year, underwater archaeologists discovered what they believed to be the remains of the ship lost off the north coast of Haiti more than five centuries ago. 

A full replica of the Santa Maria was constructed in 1997 by Dutchman Rob Wijntje and these days he conducts tours along the south coast of Madeira where he lives with his family.  

The auction contains a Beale player pianola and a range of Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, 1920s and modern teak furniture.

There is an interesting collection of ceramics, silverware, crystal, coloured glass, brass, copper and ironwork.

Art enthusiasts also view a range of Australian oil and watercolour paintings, along with graphics and large and small prints.