Description

SCW51 is a large double sheaved block similar to the Sub-type 2, Double Block “Elliptical with rounded edges and broad strop scores” found on the Vasa (Howe, 2011, p. 133) it has two sheaves side by side of equal size and like that of the Vasa large double block it was found in close proximity to a triple sheaved block of a similar style SCW588. The similarity between these two blocks and the two blocks found of the Vasa suggest a similar purpose. The Vasa blocks were interpreted as part of the winding tackle of the ship or alternatively “heavy lifting gear lost during the 1628-1629 salvage attempts” (Howe, 2011, p. 299). The presence of a becket groove on SCW51 backs up this view as the rope would have been becketed from the two sheave block and up the three sheave block to create a double luff tackle giving a 5 to 1 mechanical advantage.

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