The Australian Auxiliary Steam Clipper ISTANBOUL

Images(2)

The Australian Auxiliary Steam Clipper ISTANBOUL

Maker Illustrated London News (Established 1842)

Date1856

Object number00006016

NameEngraving

MediumInk on paper, handcoloured.

DimensionsSheet: 212 × 276 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis hand coloured wood engraving depicts the ISTANBOUL as its sails half rigged at sea. The screw steam-clipper ship was built for the Australian Auxiliary steam-clipper company and used for trade during the busy period of the Australian gold rush. Ship portraits were often commissioned by ship Captains or owners to commemorate a vessel or maritime event. The development of engraving techniques in the 19th century resulted in the increased production of prints, such as this ship portrait.HistoryThe era of the clipper ships occurred between 1845 and 1875. The period was dominated by a sense of romance, competition, national pride and innovative technology. These sleek and graceful ships were a symbol of American modernity and fundamental to the expanding global economy. Their design concentrated on speed instead of cargo capacity, a great benefit for shipping companies eager to transport goods quickly The origin of the clipper ship can be found in the search for speed and profit. Speed was certainly the most striking aspect of the clipper. These vessels were capable of sailing twenty knots or more and could travel an average of 644 kilometres in one day. This was made possible due to their long narrow hull, sharp bow and sail power. The British vessel ISTANBOUL was launched in 1856 and was capable of carrying 1470 tons. It was used on the Australian trade route.SignificanceThis ship portrait is indicative of Australian maritime traffic during the 1850s, a period that was characterized by an expanding global economy and the Australian gold rush.