Wood half-hull wall model of Rainbow, the celebrated J-Class racing yacht and defender of the 1934 America’s Cup.

The dimensional model features a long black hull with a contrasting natural wood lower hull, mounted against a warm wood-grain rectangular backboard with dark molded edging. A brass identification plate at the lower right reads “RAINBOW 1930.”

The date on the plaque is historically inaccurate. Rainbow was designed by W. Starling Burgess, built by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company in Bristol, Rhode Island, and launched in 1934. Commissioned for a syndicate led by Harold S. Vanderbilt, Rainbow successfully defended the America’s Cup that year against the British challenger Endeavour, winning the series four races to two.

The maker and production date of this professionally constructed half-hull model are unknown. Old Modern Handicrafts/Captain Jim’s Cargo was contacted directly and confirmed that this model was not manufactured by them. It likely dates to the modern revival of interest in the J-Class surrounding the launch of the replica Rainbow in 2012. The piece appears to be a commercially or hobbyist-produced decorative display.

Measures approx. 28.5 x 7.25 x 2.5 in.

Good pre-owned condition with light surface wear consistent with age and display; most notable wear is confined to the reverse, including scratches and losses/chipping at the backboard corners and edges that are not visible when displayed from the front. Front presents very well. Please review photos.