San Giovanni Battista
San Giovanni Battista is a model of the Spanish galleon built in 1688.  The model is plank on frame built from a kit by Dale Rusmisell.  Mr. Rusmisell is an excellent craftsman and model builder with a reputation for precision work with attention to detail.

San Giovanni Battista is a fine example of the majestic galleons that ruled the seas during the 16th and 17th centuries.  San Giovanni Battista, Saint John the Baptist in English, had a painting of the saint on the stern of the ship. The galleon evolved from the caravel with a lowered forecastle and elongation of the hull that gave unprecedented stability in the water and reduced wind resistance at the bow, making it a faster more maneuverable vessel.

Galleons were built from oak with a large ship requiring over 2000 trees.   The ship weighed 400 tons, sailed at 4 to 8 knots, and could carry 100 sailors and passengers.  The galleon had five decks, three masts and awesome firepower.  Whether used for war or commerce the galleon was armed with demi-culverin type cannons.  Galleons were most famously used in the Spanish treasure fleet.

Dimensions: 30" L x 27" H x 7" W $2,500