Clipper Ship RED JACKET in the ice off Cape Horn on her passage from Australia to Liverpool

Publisher Currier and Ives (1857 - 1907)

Datec 1855

Object number00005650

NameLithograph

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsOverall: 418 x 508 mm, 0.25 kg

ClassificationsEphemera

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis hand coloured lithograph depicts the clipper ship RED JACKET surrounded by ice near Cape Horn, during a voyage from Australia to Liverpool. The RED JACKET became famous for its groundbreaking maiden voyage between New York and Liverpool, completed in thirteen days, one hour and twenty-five minutes. This depiction of the RED JACKET near Cape Horn highlights the trade route of clipper ships through the southern oceans. 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. Ship portraits were popular commissions from ship Captains, shipping lines and merchants who wanted to commemorate a particular vessel or maritime event. 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 RED JACKET 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 the White Star Line for service to Melbourne. 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 its fastest. SignificanceThis lithograph is representative of the famous clipper ship RED JACKET and is an example of the production of ship portraits during the 19th century.