Sailor's Woolwork of Royal Navy Ship With Red Ensign With Two Bermudan Ketches

Details

Description

Maritime Folk Art: Sailor's Woolwork of a Royal Navy Ship off Bermuda
Circa 1865

A fine mid-19th-century British sailor's woolwork … Read more Maritime Folk Art: Sailor's Woolwork of a Royal Navy Ship off Bermuda
Circa 1865

A fine mid-19th-century British sailor's woolwork (or "woolie"), depicting a Royal Navy ship under full sail on a calm blue sea, likely executed circa 1865.

The charming composition features a port-side view of the vessel, proudly flying the Red Ensign from her mizzen-mast and a long red pennant from her main mast. The scene is localized by the inclusion of two smaller vessels in the foreground; these are distinctively rigged Bermudan Ketches, suggesting the ship is depicted off the coast of Bermuda—a key station for the Royal Navy in the North Atlantic.

Framing: The work is elegantly presented in a beautiful maple frame with a classic ogee profile. It has been fitted with Museum Glass®, chosen to significantly reduce reflections while offering substantial UV protection to preserve the textile's colors.

Condition: Excellent antique condition. The colors remain good.

Measurements:
Height: 19 3/4 inches (50.2 cm)
Width: 22 1/4 inches (56.5 cm)

Historical Context:

"Woolies" were a unique folk art form created by British sailors recording their ships and journies. Bermuda was a strategic outpost for the Royal Navy (the Dockyard was a major base), making it a frequent subject for sailors stationed in the Americas. The inclusion of local craft like the Bermudan ketch adds significant topographical interest to this example.

(Ref: NY10819-ipac) See less