This impressive cased builder’s style model depicts the famous clipper Ariel, built at Greenock in 1865 by Robert Steele & Co. Renowned as one of the finest tea clippers of the nineteenth century, Ariel achieved lasting fame through her participation in the legendary 1866 Great Tea Race, one of the closest and most celebrated contests in maritime history. Displayed in a traditional glazed hardwood case, the model is built to 1:96 scale and carries the maker’s plaque for C.D. Riches Models. Beautifully finished, it accurately captures the vessel’s distinctive hull lines, deck layout, and fittings, making it an excellent representation of this iconic sailing ship. The model is presented in excellent display condition, with only minor age-related wear to the case. A superb addition to any maritime collection, ideal for collectors of clipper ships, nautical antiques, and historic ship models.