Folk Art Portrait of the Clipper Ship SOVEREIGN

New England, probably Massachusetts, ca. 1852.   

ELEVATED CONSIDERABLY BY THE BOLD BLOCK LETTERING.

 Watercolor on paper.

Sovereign of the Seas, a clipper ship built in 1852, was a sailing vessel notable for setting the world record for the fastest sailing ship, with a speed of 22 knots.

Built by Donald McKay of East Boston, Massachusetts, Sovereign of the Seas was the first ship to travel more than 400 nautical miles in 24 hours. She made a record passage from Honolulu, Hawaii, to New York City in 82 days. She then broke the record to Liverpool, England, making the passage in 13 days 13+1⁄2 hours. In 1853 she was chartered by James Baines of the Black Ball Line, Liverpool for the Australia trade.

Excellent condition with minor imperfections. Gilt frame appears to be original. Frame size about 23 ½ x 17 ½ inches.