In Antananarivo, Madagascar, a skilled craftsman named Rafah Ralahy is meticulously working on bringing a 17th-century French trading ship back to life. The ship, known as the Soleil d’Orient, sank in 1681 while carrying ambassadors and treasure from the King of Siam to King Louis XIV of France. Ralahy, with 30 years of experience at the Le Village model ship making company, understands the importance of taking his time to recreate history in miniature form with precision and care.

Le Village has been recreating models of famous vessels since 1993, using original building plans acquired from maritime museums to ensure accuracy. The company’s attention to historic detail has attracted collectors worldwide, including prominent figures like Prince Albert of Monaco and the Spanish royal family. Pope Francis was even presented with a model by Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina.

The models crafted by Le Village range from celebrated to infamous ships, with some high-end replicas selling for as much as $10,000. The company’s team of over two dozen model makers, many of whom have been with the company for more than 20 years, work diligently in dusty workshops on the outskirts of Antananarivo.

Despite Madagascar’s lack of a shipbuilding tradition, Le Village stands as a testament to dedication and craftsmanship. The company faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic but was revitalized when Grégory Postel, his wife, and another couple took over. Their vision includes plans to establish a woodworking school and a maritime museum on the island.

Ralahy, along with his colleagues at Le Village, pours countless hours into each model, with some taking over 1,000 hours of work to complete. The team works together closely, with husbands and wives, as well as other family members, collaborating on the intricate details of the ship models.

As the craftsmen and women at Le Village meticulously assemble the models, there is a sense of pride in their work and joy in seeing the finished products making their way to buyers around the world. With each model that leaves their workshop, the team at Le Village continues to uphold a tradition of excellence and craftsmanship that transcends the centuries.