For Melbourne, direct. The favourite A 1 clipper barque STERLING

Maker Henry W Peabody & Co Australian Line (American, founded 1867)

Printer Fred Rogers Printers

Date1868

Object number00008629

NameClipper card

MediumPaper

DimensionsOverall: 167 x 105 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis card is an advertisement for the STERLING and its passage from Boston to Melbourne in 1868, its second voyage to Australia. It consists of a wood-cut coloured illustration on white enamel card depicting the logo of the Henry W Peabody & Co shipping line with the Coat of Arms of America and Australia.HistoryClipper ship cards were one of the advertising methods used by ship owners to promote their vessels and transport schedules. In colourful print and bold designs they publicised the supposedly superior qualities of each vessel, often using images of maritime scenes, mythology, patriotism and women to promote their cause. The cards were largely manufactured during the late-19th century and were designed to be handed out at the docks. They were brighter and more appealing than the newspaper advertisements of the time but often used similar wording. They could be printed in up to seven different colours including blue, red, green white, black, brown, and yellow. Some printers also used gold, bronze and purple. The majority of clipper cards were produced when the popularity of the clipper ship was dwindling and merchants were opting for faster steam powered vessels. Clipper ships were largely active between 1845 and 1875. Their design concentrated on speed instead of cargo capacity, which was a great benefit for shipping companies eager to transport goods quickly. The sleek and graceful ships generated a sense of romance, competition, national pride and innovative technology. They were a symbol of American modernity and fundamental to the expanding global economy. The STERLING was an A1 clipper ship in operation for the Henry W peabody Australian shipping Line. The vessel was aonly small with a capacity of 490 tons.SignificanceClipper ship cards of the 19th century rarely survive as they were often discarded when the ship sailed. This card illustrates maritime trade and commerce in Australia during the mid-19th century. It is representative of clipper cards designed for the Henry W Peabody & Co shipping line.