JAMES EDWARD BUTTERSWORTH (New Jersey/New York/United Kingdom, 1817-1894), Merchant vessels
JAMES EDWARD BUTTERSWORTH
New Jersey/New York/United Kingdom, 1817-1894
Merchant vessels departing, probably outer New York Harbor, circa 1855. The two square-rigged vessels have false gunports, as was common for ships of this era, and both are flying an American flag off the gaff. The paddle steamer at the center distance, probably one of the Collins Line trans-Atlantic packets, is flying an American flag. The two dories in the foreground each have six figures in colorful clothing. Signed lower right "JE Buttersworth".
Oil on canvas, 13.25" x 18". Framed 19.5" x 24".
Notes:
As one would expect from a work by J.E. Buttersworth, the detail of the hulls, spars, rigging and sails seen here is outstanding. Both merchant ships have their stunsails extended on the port side, which was probably done to increase speed and efficiency in the light wind that ripples across the waves. The dories in the foreground add depth to the composition and provide perspective so viewers can fully put themselves in the water of this busy shipping channel, about to head out to sea.
Condition
The canvas has been relined. Although the painting presents well under natural light, UV examination reveals some heavy restoration: one vertical line just right of center, and the upper left 3" x 8" section has been totally restored.The absence of a condition report does not imply an object is free of defects. All items may have normal signs of age and wear commensurate with their age; these issues will likely not be mentioned in the condition report. Please contact Eldred's before the auction with any condition questions. Questions about condition will not be answered after purchase. Condition reports are provided as a courtesy, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Important note on frames: Frames are not guaranteed to be in the same condition as they are in the item photograph. Due to handling and shipping, many frames, especially antique ones, are prone to losses. If you have questions about the condition of a frame, please contact us prior to the auction.
JAMES EDWARD BUTTERSWORTH
New Jersey/New York/United Kingdom, 1817-1894
Merchant vessels departing, probably outer New York Harbor, circa 1855. The two square-rigged vessels have false gunports, as was common for ships of this era, and both are flying an American flag off the gaff. The paddle steamer at the center distance, probably one of the Collins Line trans-Atlantic packets, is flying an American flag. The two dories in the foreground each have six figures in colorful clothing. Signed lower right "JE Buttersworth".
Oil on canvas, 13.25" x 18". Framed 19.5" x 24".
Notes:
As one would expect from a work by J.E. Buttersworth, the detail of the hulls, spars, rigging and sails seen here is outstanding. Both merchant ships have their stunsails extended on the port side, which was probably done to increase speed and efficiency in the light wind that ripples across the waves. The dories in the foreground add depth to the composition and provide perspective so viewers can fully put themselves in the water of this busy shipping channel, about to head out to sea.
Condition
The canvas has been relined. Although the painting presents well under natural light, UV examination reveals some heavy restoration: one vertical line just right of center, and the upper left 3" x 8" section has been totally restored.The absence of a condition report does not imply an object is free of defects. All items may have normal signs of age and wear commensurate with their age; these issues will likely not be mentioned in the condition report. Please contact Eldred's before the auction with any condition questions. Questions about condition will not be answered after purchase. Condition reports are provided as a courtesy, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Important note on frames: Frames are not guaranteed to be in the same condition as they are in the item photograph. Due to handling and shipping, many frames, especially antique ones, are prone to losses. If you have questions about the condition of a frame, please contact us prior to the auction.
