Lot 079 - Vintage WWII-Era Sailor-Made Folk Art Wooden Model Of Uss Lexington (Cv-2) Aircraft Carrier, As Found, 21-1/4" L

Name: Lot 079 - Vintage WWII-Era Sailor-Made Folk Art Wooden Model Of Uss Lexington (Cv-2) Aircraft Carrier, As Found, 21-1/4" L
Brand: Memory Hole Vintage
SKU: 20260108-LOT079
Price: 999999.99 USD
Availability: InStock

Current Bid: $25.00
2 Bids | 4 Favs

Handmade folk art model depicting the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier USS Lexington (CV-2), constructed in a naïve, sailor-made style and showing the flight deck populated with numerous small aircraft. The model retains its original surface and shows extensive wear consistent with age and handling. Many aircraft and structural elements are missing or damaged, and the piece is offered strictly in as-found condition, without restoration.

The previous dealer from whom this piece was acquired stated that it was purchased from the widow of the sailor who made it; however, this provenance cannot be independently verified and is presented only as an anecdotal account.

USS Lexington (CV-2) was originally commissioned in 1927 as one of the U.S. Navy’s first fleet aircraft carriers, converted from a battlecruiser hull under the Washington Naval Treaty. During the interwar years and early World War II, Lexington played a significant role in the development of carrier aviation and participated in multiple Pacific operations. She was sunk on May 8, 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea after sustaining heavy damage from Japanese aircraft, marking one of the earliest major carrier losses of the war.

This model was created as a personal or commemorative object rather than a commercial kit, reflecting the informal construction methods and materials commonly associated with sailor-made folk art of the period. No maker’s marks or identifying inscriptions are present.

Dimensions: 21-1/4" L x 3-1/2" W x 5-5/8" H

Auction Date: 01/08/2026