Hobart Town 1856
Artist
Henry Gritten
(1818-1873)
Date1856
Object number00018553
NamePainting
MediumOil on canvas
DimensionsOverall (including frame): 620 × 827 × 60 mm, 3.7 kg
ClassificationsArt
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
Collections
DescriptionThis oil painting by Henry Gritten depicts the settlement of Hobart on the Derwent River in Tasmania, below the impressive shape of Mount Wellington. Anchored in the harbour are several sailing and steam vessels of various nationalities, including a three-masted clipper ship flying an American flag and a paddle steamer, possibly the KANGAROO. A number of Hobart landmarks are also recognisable, including Constitution Dock, Victoria Dock, Cowgills windmill and St. Georges church.HistoryHobart is the second oldest city in Australia and was developed in 1803 as a penal colony, situated on the Derwent River at the foothills of Mount Wellington. By the 1840s Hobart was a busy port attracting trade ships, whaling vessels, sealing ships and shipbuilders. The settlement was largely dependent on maritime industries and the Derwent River provided an ideal waterway for the town’s growth, being one of Australia's deepest and accessible ports.
SignificanceThis picturesque depiction is representative of shipping in Hobart during the 19th century. It is a good example of the work of Henry Gritten, an experienced artist who stayed in Hobart during 1856 and produced a handful of paintings depicting the town.
