A Breeches Buoy snatch block, this can be unlocked and opened to allow the block to be connected to the Whip line.
This was necessary when the ship was in danger of breaking up and there was no time to wait for hawser to be hauled out and tied in place, or when the masts had broken away and no other substantial object of any height could be used to tie the apparatus too.
Made from brass with double pully sheaves and steel locking mechanism complete with rope becket.
Length: 28 cm / 11 inches including rope becket.
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