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James Edward Buttersworth (British/American, 1817-1894), circa 1855
signed lower right "J.E. Buttersworth"
oil on canvas
20 x 30 in. (50.8 x 76.2 cm.)
Footnotes
Literature:
Richard B. Grassby, Ship, Sea & Sky - The Marine Art of James Edward Buttersworth, Rizzoli, N.Y., 1994, pp. 77-81 for other examples of clipper ships in storms, including Flying Cloud.
Rudolph J. Schaefer, J. E. Buttersworth - 19th Century Marine Painter, Mystic Seaport, 2009, pp. 72-91 for other examples of clipper ships, including others in storms.
The Flying Cloud was a clipper ship that set the world's sailing record for the fastest passage between New York and San Francisco, 89 days 8 hours. She held this record for over 100 years, from 1854-1989.
Flying Cloud was the most famous of the clippers built by Donald McKay. She was known for her extremely close race with the Hornet in 1853; for having a woman navigator, Eleanor Creesy, wife of Josiah Perkins Creesy who skippered the Flying Cloud on two record-setting voyages from New York to San Francisco; and for sailing in the Australia and timber trades.
Saleroom notices
Please note, the correct title for this paintings should read: Flying Cloud on her record breaking voyage to San Francisco around Cape Horn in 89-days, April 20th 1854 In addition the painting is listed under this title (but not illustrated)in: - Rudolph J. Schaefer, J. E. Buttersworth - 19th Century Marine Painter, Mystic Seaport, 2009, pg. 240 for a listing of this painting. - Rudolph J. Schaefer, J. E. Buttersworth - 19th Century Marine Painter, Mystic Seaport, 1975, No. 284, pg 247 for a listing of this painting. The circa date for this painting is 1854.