British Sailor's Woolwork Picture of Five Ships Off a Coastline

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Lighthouse Watch: Five British Ships at Sea

British Sailor's Woolwork Picture of Five Ships Offshore
Circa 1875

This engaging and … Read more Lighthouse Watch: Five British Ships at Sea

British Sailor's Woolwork Picture of Five Ships Offshore
Circa 1875

This engaging and substantial piece is a superb example of sailor's woolwork (or "woolie"), a distinct form of folk art created by sailors of the British Royal Navy and merchant service, primarily during the mid-to-late 19th century. These works were a favorite pastime during long voyages and served as prized gifts to be sent home.

A Naval Panorama
This scene offers a detailed panorama of a busy coastal area, featuring five different vessels at sea:

Centerpiece: The largest vessel dominates the composition. It is a three-masted ship under full sail, but significantly, its hull is representative of a transitional warship—a steam-assisted ram-bowed vessel. It proudly flies the British White Ensign and a long banner, identifying it as a Royal Navy vessel.

Foreground: To the lower right is a smaller Royal Navy two-masted paddle steamer, a type of ship used throughout the Victorian era for escort and survey roles. To the lower left is another two-masted sailing ship under full sail.

Background: Closer to the shore, two additional sailing ships navigate the waters, one sailing toward the land and the other sailing away, completing the maritime activity.

The ships are stitched with remarkable detail, especially in the rigging and the volume of the sails, achieved through layering and subtle variations in the off-white wool.

The Coastal Setting
The ships float upon a deep, rich dark blue sea, carefully rendered with lighter ripples of blue and white wool to suggest movement and waves. The background provides a picturesque, perhaps romanticized, view of the British coast:

Shoreline: The land is defined by grassy hills and earth tones, rising against a pale blue sky.

Landmarks: Prominent on the shore are two structures: a tall lighthouse, a common symbol of home and safety in sailor's art, and a small barn or house, further grounding the scene in a familiar, domestic context.

Historical Significance
Dating to the 1870s, this woolie is contemporary with the period of naval transition it depicts—from the great sailing warships to the ironclads and steam-powered vessels. It represents a sailor's vision of the Royal Navy's power and diversity, rendered in a distinctly personal, handcrafted medium.

The artistry of this large-scale woolie is notable for its intricate stitching, complex composition, and clear maritime narrative.

Dimensions: 26 3/4 inches high x 29 3/4 inches wide (67.95 cm high x 75.57 cm wide).

This artwork is elegantly presented in a highly figured maple frame and protected by Museum UV Glass.

(Ref: NY10538-curr) See less