A ship in a bottle is a traditional form of maritime folk art that dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, when sailors created miniature ships during long voyages. The illusion of building a fully rigged sailing ship inside a narrow glass bottle is achieved by constructing the model with folding masts and carefully threaded rigging, then raising the masts into place once the ship is inside. These delicate models became popular souvenirs and symbols of patience, craftsmanship, and seafaring life.
Ships-in-a-bottle have traditionally been handmade craft objects, but Hampton Nautical has a nice collection of ready-made ships, including the iconic USS Constitution model pictured here. If you'd like the experience of building your own, you can try a kit like this from Cape Shore or a premium kit from Amati.