Untitled [Auxiliary steam ship]

Artist Joseph Fowles (1810-1878)

Date1840s - 1870s

Object number00042690

NamePainting

MediumOil on canvas

DimensionsOverall: 380 x 530 x 15 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Mary Rae Thomas

Terms

DescriptionThis oil painting by Joseph Fowles shows an auxiliary steam ship in Farm Cove, Sydney Harbour, with Government House and Fort Macquarie in the background, mid-19th century. The ship in the painting is not naval but flies a flag suggesting it has an official purpose, and is possibly the Governor's vessel, while its presence in Farm Cove, below Government House, heightens this probability.HistoryThe ship depicted in Farm Cove is almost certainly a government vessel. It is not a naval vessel and is flying a red ensign (flown by merchant shipping), but it also flies a white flag with a design including an emu and a kangaroo, suggesting an official capacity.SignificanceJoseph Fowles was a well known Sydney artist and was best known for his depictions of Sydney streets and buildings. Today his work, such as this harbour scene, is a valuable record of Sydney during its vibrant growth and expansion.