CONQUEST
Date1880
Object number00008391
NameClipper Card
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsOverall: 165 x 100 mm
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection
Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis card is an advertisement for freight on board the clipper ship CONQUEST, travelling from Boston to Sydney and Brisbane. It was printed from a coloured wood-cut print and features the logo of the Australian shipping line, Henry W Peabody & Co with the Australian and American Coat of Arms.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 CONQUEST was an A1 class clipper ship with a capacity of 612 tons. It was used on the Australian trade route to carry freight.
SignificanceClipper ship cards of the 19th century rarely survive as they were often discarded when the ship left the dock. This example is representative of the prominent shipping line Henry W Peabody & Co and their role in Australian trade.
