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This Majestic and Far Famed Ocean Steam Clipper is the Most Celebrated Vessel Afloat - GREAT BRITAIN - John Gray Esq Commander
This Majestic and Far Famed Ocean Steam Clipper is the Most Celebrated Vessel Afloat - GREAT BRITAIN - John Gray Esq Commander

This Majestic and Far Famed Ocean Steam Clipper is the Most Celebrated Vessel Afloat - GREAT BRITAIN - John Gray Esq Commander

Maker
Date1840 - 1860
Object number00032219
NameEngraved shell
MediumShell, Ink, nacre
DimensionsOverall: 100 x 120 x 130 mm
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Halcyon Evans
DescriptionSea shell stripped back to its nacre and then engraved. It was worked by Charles H Wood circa 1840-1860. The engraving depicts the GREAT BRITIAN, which has been carefully worked onto the polished back mother of pearl surface and then stained with ink. The drawing carries the inscription, "This Majestic and Far Famed Ocean Steam Clipper is the Most Celebrated vessel Afloat GREAT BRITAIN Jno Gray Esq Commander". This text is then followed by "Long 328, Breath 58, Depth 40, Power 500, Tons 3209". HistoryCharles H Wood was regarded as an expert carver of nautilus and cowrie shells. He was active 1840-1865. Wood's other famous tributes were to SS GREAT WESTERN and SS GREAT BRITAIN. Wood is said to have executed his first public carving as a presentation to Queen Victoria, "In January of the year 1845 Her Majesty presented to a mechanic named Charles Wood, residing in Harp Court, Farrington Street, London, a proof print of Hayter's celebrated picture of the coronation in a beautiful gilt frame, richly ornamented with leaves, in return for a nautilus shell on which were engraved arms of the GREAT BRITAIN and GREAT WESTERN Steamships, the Royal Arms and other devices, all executed with only one instrument, namely a pen-knife." Although other shell were subsequently presented to the Lord Mayors of London and York, it is unclear whether Wood's productions were solely intended for individual presentation or whether some were actually sold for profit. SignificanceIn 1843, GREAT BRITAIN was first launched as an excellent vessel that revolutionised passenger travel by using new technology, including an iron hull, screw propeller and a massive steam engine. Scrimshaw art depicting GREAT BRITAIN were popular items of souvenirs at the time, especially with on-board passengers.