Untitled (Clipper ship THOMAS STEPHENS)

Artist George Frederick Gregory [Jnr] (1857 - 1913)

Maker Godfrey

Date1894

Object number00017732

NamePainting

MediumWatercolour on paper

DimensionsOverall: 534 x 708 mm, 0.45 kg

ClassificationsArt

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

Newcastle

DescriptionThis watercolour painting depicts the clipper ship THOMAS STEPHENS under full sail in heavy seas. The ship's name can be seen near the bow and some crew can be seen on the deck. It has been attributed to George Frederick Gregory, who worked with Godfrey's studio.HistoryShip painters of colonial Australia supplied a growing market of owners, officers and crew of the thousands of ships visiting Australian ports. Artists worked around the country, painting faithful portraits of ships under sail or steam. From the late 19th century artists began to work with photographers to provide accurate detail. Paintings and photographs were offered on board to be carried back to home ports around the world. The THOMAS STEPHENS, built and launched in July 1869 by William H. Potter & Co., Liverpool for the Black Ball Line, was considered to be one of the finest ships of its time. It was a fast sailing ship and made many passages to Australian waters with passengers and general cargo. THOMAS STEPHENS traded to many ports; for grain cargo to New Zealand; to Sydney for wool; to Melbourne for wheat; and from Antwerp to Sydney immigrant passengers.SignificanceThis painting is an excellent example of late 19th century Australian ship portraiture.