02-01-201302-02-2013
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2635BBoston
February 1, 2013 12:00 PMCalender
359

Attributed to Samuel Walters (British, 1811-1882) Ship Ellen Brooks, Off Holyhead, Homeward Bound, 1839

Sell one like this
$3,240$2,700
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 2635BLocation: BostonDate / Time: February 01, 2013 12:00PM

Description:

Attributed to Samuel Walters (British, 1811-1882)

Ship Ellen Brooks, Off Holyhead, Homeward Bound, 1839
Unsigned, identified on a presentation plaque.
Oil on canvas, 23 x 36 in. (58.5 x 91.5 cm),framed.
Condition: Lined, retouch, scattered paint losses, craquelure, surface grime.

Provenance: By descent within the family of R.D. Shepherd, the ship's owner.

N.B. The vessel pictured here was built for R.D. Shepherd in Medford, Massachusetts, in 1834. It is named for the owner's daughter, Ellen Shepherd Brooks, whose portrait by Thomas Sully is offered in this auction as Lot 382.

This popular composition might be called a "bon voyage" image. The Ellen Brooks, having safely left Liverpool seventy miles astern, is seen off Holyhead Mountain preparing to alter course by almost ninety degrees toward the South Stack Lighthouse seen on the right. The stern view of the vessel on the right indicates she has made the change of course and is well on her way to a clear run down to Tuskar Lighthouse and the safety of the open sea.

According to family tradition the painting was done by Samuel Walters (1811-1882). For more information about the Liverpool School and Walters see: A.S. Davidson, Samuel Walters-Marine Artist Fifty Years of Sea, Sail, & Steam.

We would like to thank Charles Lanagan for his assistance in describing the composition above.
Estimate $5,500-7,500


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords

Samuel Walters, Ellen Shepherd Brooks, R.D. Shepherd, Massachusetts, Medford, Thomas Sully, South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead Mountain, Tuskar Lighthouse, Liverpool School, Samuel Walters-Marine Artist, Charles Lanagan