Casgliadau Arlein

Figurehead of the H.M.S. HAMADRYAD built between 1819 and 1823. Following her launch at Pembroke Dock in 1823 she was towed to Portsmouth for completion. It is believed that the figurehead was installed at Portsmouth because the Royal Navy had a figurehead carving workshop at Portsmouth. Prior to the ship leaving Cardiff in 1905, the London-based buyers presented the figurehead and bell to the newly built hospital where they were displayed until being presented to Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales in 1974. Figurehead is on a black wooden octagonal base, with brass plaque between figure head and base.