Scale 1:12 model of Paxman Economic boiler, as built by Davey, Paxman & Co. Ltd, Colchester, England, c.1910. Model built by John B. Thorp of London, and mounted in display case.

The model is of the Paxman ‘Economic’ boiler as built by Davey, Paxman & Co Ltd of Colchester, England, in about 1912. It was one of the best-known and efficient boilers on the market and helped ensure the viability of steam power until well into the twentieth century. Fine-scale models such as this one, built by John B Thorp, are important for museum purposes when full-size examples are generally too large for gallery display.