RSS Resolution Ship Nameboard

Ship naming is a long-standing maritime tradition dating back many centuries. According to nautical traditions, a ship’s name is not only an indicator of identity, but it is also said to play an important role in ensuring good fortune and safety to the vessel and her crew.

A ship’s name is officially unveiled to invited guests during a ship launching ceremony to celebrate the transfer of a ship from land to water for the first time. While the names of civilian vessels are often up to the owners, the convention for naming military vessels differs from country to country. During a ship launching ceremony, a sponsor will typically christen the ship by smashing a bottle of champagne or other types of alcoholic beverages against her bow. This is believed to bring good luck to the vessel and ensure her safe passage. It is considered bad luck if the bottle fails to break.

The sponsor is usually a person of importance, such as the ship’s builder, owner, or a dignitary. Although it is customary for sponsors to be female, there is no hard and fast rule that forbids men from participating in ship christening ceremonies or performing the tradition of breaking the bottle. Women are often chosen as sponsors because they are seen as symbols of good luck. It is hoped that nurturing and protective qualities, which are traditionally associated with women, will help to ensure the ship’s safety and success. In modern times, the choice of sponsor may vary depending on the ship, the cultural context, as well as the preference of those involved in decision-making.

This nameboard from RSS Resolution is composed of 10 individually constructed three-dimensional metal letters arranged to form the word “resolution” on a rectangular piece of wood. Due to corrosion, its original colour is no longer visible, but the letterings were likely painted white and set against a blue background.