Engraving of a three-masted ship

1797

Maker

William Elmes (active 1791-c. 1815)
Published by John Fairburn of Minories, London (active 1789-1840)

Measurements

12-7/8 in x 16-7/8 in (sight, 9-3/4 x 13-7/8)

Materials

Colored stipple engraving on paper

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3622

Inscription

"A VIEW of AN HOMEWARD-BOUND AMERICAN SHIP taking her departure from the LANDS END." is in large letters below the image, and "Published March 6, 1797, by John Fairburn, Minories London." is below that.  "Designed & Engraved by W. Elmes." is printed immediately below the image and above the prominent banner.

Condition Notes

The print exhibits some toning.

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

The image shows the stern and port side of an unnamed three-masted ship flying an American flag with fifteen stars as well as an American banner atop the main mast.  (Tennessee became the sixteenth state on June 1, 1796.)  Four other ships are shown sailing off the coast of Land's End, so-named because it is the southwestern-most tip of land in England.