Thomas Whitcombe Early 19th Century Maritime Painting
Item Details
An early 19th century painting by well respected and avidly collected maritime artist Thomas Whitcombe (British 1760-1824) titled ‘Bateau Sous Voiles’ (Boat Under Sail) as indicated on the label to the back. Whitcombe was recorded as having studied at the Royal Academy School in 1781 then went on to exhibit at the Royal Academy, The British Institution and The Royal Society of British Artists. His works often illustrate naval engagements and his keen observations and attention to accurate details allow the viewer to identify both ships and background locations. Interestingly, a letter from The Parker Gallery in London (dated 1956 and signed by R.G. Hollies-Smith) identifies the location of this particular painting to be Gravesend on the Thames due to the church tower in the background as being ‘distinctive’ and also ‘Tilbury Fort’ on the opposite shore being recognizable. The profile of a large ship bearing the British flag with three masts commands the composition with pale pink, billowy clouds creating the atmosphere and a small rowboat with tow oarsmen and three passengers is in the foreground. The painting is signed by the artist in the lower left corner and dated 1819, the wide gold gilt frame also appears to be original. Other labeling to the back at the top reads ‘From J. Palser Print Seller’ and ‘Fine Art Dept, 157 Queens Road, W’ labeled at the bottom. Thomas Whitcombe’s paintings can be found in the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich and in many important private collections around the world.
Condition
Slight craquelure and one small area of repair in the cloud on the upper left approximately .5" in diameter. The frame has several small areas of touch up at the edge and several small nicks.
Dimensions
The framed painting measures 39" high x 55" wide with the image being 31" high x 47" wide.
Item #
13CIN093-001
