Display Recommendations
A good way to protect and display a model ship is under glass; we also often use acrylic covers with beveled edges, similar to what is shown below.
Real glass is more durable and less susceptible to heat and sunlight, however the lesser weight and the clean, clear edges of an acrylic case have its own advantages. With good care, such as cleaning with a soft cloth, not paper towel, the acrylic will last for many years. Optically acrylic is very similar to glass.
For a quality wood and glass case for your ship model we suggest Hallen Display Cases, they are known the world over for their classic style wood and glass display cases.
If a fully assembled glass and solid brass display case is what you prefer, Clear View Designs will have the display case you're looking for. US shipping only!
Houston Display Furniture will be able to build you a standard or custom display stand to do your model justice.
Even though a case will keep your model dust and dirt free, lighting can really bring a display to life. External lighting from above and slightly in front can be used to make a model ship the center of attention, even in the most prestigious of settings and could be effectively used when displaying your model in an alcove or above a fireplace.
Interior lighting can also be applied with spectacular result, do make absolutely sure however that the lighting you plan to use emits as little heat as possible. In that lies an inherent problem since light is heat. In-display-case lighting should be of the low-voltage or LED variety. Any lighting system producing little heat is preferable and even crucial to the lifespan of both model and display case. As an added benefit the 'color-temperature' of low-voltage lighting systems can often be changed or selected. Multiple, from 2 to 8 light sources are always preferred over a single point of light. Venting the case and/or drawing away heat from the interior is also never a bad idea.
Avoid using fluorescent lighting as it will usually make for a dull and flat display.
The Art of Age of Sail recieves no incentives for mentioning or promoting the display case manufacturers mentioned, we simply trust those manufacturers and like their products.
