Australia Independent Line for Sydney. The A1 clipper ship KEYSTONE

Maker Australia Independant Line

Date1861

Object number00008610

NameClipper card

MediumPaper

DimensionsOverall: 128 x 69 mm

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis pocket sized card is an advertisement for the clipper ship KEYSTONE's voyage from New York to Sydney. It features a wood cut illustration on enamel depicting the Australia Independent Line clipper from the broadside starboard view. KEYSTONE was used for transporting freight and passengers on the Australian trade route during the mid-19th century.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 KEYSTONE was an A1 clipper ship with a capacity of 1000 tons. It was used for transporting passengers and freight.SignificanceClipper ship cards of the 19th century rarely survive as they were often discarded when the ship left the port. This card highlights maritime trade and commerce between America and Australia during the mid-19th century Australian gold rush.