The Australian clipper ship RED JACKET one of Messrs. Pilkington & Wilson's White Star Line

Artist John R Isaac

Datec 1856

Object number00019511

NameLithograph

MediumLithographic print on paper.

DimensionsOverall: 795 x 610 x 40 mm

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis lithograph depicts the White Star line's clipper ship RED JACKET under full sail at sea. The three-masted square rigged vessel is flying a house flag from its mainmast and an ensign from its spanker mast. In the 1850s RED JACKET gained fame as one of the fastest clipper ships on the ocean, setting the record for all ships traveling between Liverpool and Melbourne.HistoryThe era of the clipper ships 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 to shipping companies eager to transport goods quickly. The famous clipper ship RED JACKET features in many ship portraits and maritime scenes from the 19th century. RED JACKET was named after the Native American Seneca chief, Sagoyewatha, known as Red Jacket because he wore a British Army officer's coat. Under Captain Eldridge, the ship sailed from New York to Liverpool in 13 days, 1 hour, and 25 minutes- a sailing record that stands to the present day. The clipper was later chartered by Pilkington's White Star Line for service to Melbourne. In 1854 the RED JACKET took part in a clipper race from Liverpool to Melbourne with the James Baines Black Ball line vessel, LIGHTNING. The RED JACKET arrived in Melbourne five days ahead of the LIGHTNING to claim victory. Under Captain Reid the vessel made the passage in 69 days, 11 hours, and 15 minutes. RED JACKET was considered the smartest-looking ship in the British merchant fleet and one of the fastest. SignificanceThis lithograph is representative of the famous clipper ship RED JACKET. It is a fine example of ship portraiture during the 19th century.