In French

This monograph takes its place in a series of texts devoted to the most representative ships of the French Navy in the classical period. We have addressed the subject of frigates in two other monographs (the Vénus and the Belle-Poule) which are distinguishable by their battery of 8 and 12 pdr guns. The present monograph discusses an armed frigate bearing 8-pdrr guns. It is a unique ship because La Renommée was one of the first modern frigates to be built in 1744 according to Blaise Ollivier's concepts. This aspect is developed in another volume in our series which discusses the history of the frigate. The monograph on the Renommée was done using the same descriptive approach we adopt in the other monographs in the series. This full monograph is for scholars and above all for model builders. According to their skill and experience, they will be able to execute a full model of the timbers and the below-deck installations (the oblique inner planking of the hull will require great dexterity). The casks for wine and water are not represented, nor are the cables and warps. However it is possible to construct these elements using the information in volume II of The 74-gun Ship, but their placement will hide the timber work. We leave this choice to the builder at the appropriate moment. The hull may be fitted out with only the lower masts or rigged with furled or unfurled sails, allowing for full use of the monograph. The model may be built without attention to the timbers and accommodations, with or without rigging. This is entirely dependent upon the builder's taste and especially his or her experience. This monograph is intended a priori for model builders with considerable experience. Confirmed hands will be able to construct a model of rare quality, especially thanks to the beauty of this elegant frigate whose fine bottom and distinguished decoration do honor to French naval architecture.