Mid 19th Century Two Old Master-Style Pen and Ink Studies | Maritime Subjects | Sea Dragon & Sailing Ship

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Two original Old Master-style pen and ink studies of maritime subjects. These drawings appear to have been executed in the … Read more Two original Old Master-style pen and ink studies of maritime subjects. These drawings appear to have been executed in the tradition of works dating from the 17th or 18th century. Our best estimate is that these drawings are from the mid 19th century, however the actual date of origin is unknown. The top sheet measures 7 1/2" wide x 10" high. The upper window (Sea Monster) measures 3" wide x 1 1/2" high. The lower window (Sailing Ship) measures 2 1/2" wide by 2 5/8" high.

Top Drawing (The Sea Dragon): This is a classic "Cetus" or sea dragon, a common motif in Renaissance and Baroque cartography and decorative arts. The scales, the scrolled tail, and the flared, dragon-like head are characteristic of the grotesque style used to decorate map oceans or architectural friezes.

Bottom Drawing (The Sailing Ship): This depicts a high-walled sailing vessel, possibly a cog or a Mediterranean caravel. The cross-hatching and fine line work are consistent with engraving-style pen work, used to mimic the precision of a copperplate print.

Pen and iron gall or carbon ink on paper. The drawings are "inlaid" or "window-mounted" into a secondary support sheet. This was a common practice for 18th and 19th-century collectors to preserve smaller works. The use of short, precise strokes and varied line weights suggests a very experienced hand, possibly studies for a larger maritime scene or an illustration for a nautical treatise.

Often, drawings of this nature are attributed to the "Circle of" or "Follower of" or *In the manner of* notable maritime artists such as: Willem van de Velde the Elder/Younger: (Dutch, 17th Century) or Stefano della Bella: (Italian, 17th Century). See less