Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd has dated this Antique Maritime Oil Painting to the 19th Century.
This Independent Date Guide was compiled by Sellingantiques using its own proprietary system. It works only from the photographs shown on this page and is never told the date the dealer has declared. It is a guide, not a guarantee of age, and occasional errors can occur.
Subject & Medium
Attributed to the renowned Chinese marine painter Lai Fong (Fl. 1870–1910), the ship is portrayed in starboard profile with remarkable nautical accuracy beneath a luminous sky and lively sea.
This large maritime painting captures the elegance of one of Britain's finest merchant sailing vessels during the golden age of international trade.
Composition & Technique
The composition combines technical precision with strong decorative appeal. Finely painted rigging, fully set sails and a crisply rendered hull are complemented by rolling green seas and a soft blue sky illuminated by warm light. Signal flags and the British Red Ensign provide vibrant accents, while distant vessels add depth and atmosphere.
About the Artist
Attributed to Lai Fong (Fl. 1870–1910), a respected marine painter active in Calcutta during the late Victorian period. He specialised in portraits of merchant ships visiting one of the British Empire's busiest ports, and his works are admired for their detailed observation and historical accuracy.
About the Ship
Built by Harland & Wolff, Belfast, in 1878, Slieve Roe was one of the celebrated Sinclair colonial clippers, designed for the Britain–India trade. Renowned for her speed and reliability, she carried valuable cargoes including jute and tea and remains an important vessel in British maritime history.
Signature
Unsigned.
Attributed to Lai Fong (Fl. 1870–1910).
Frame
Presented in a later gilt and ebonised moulded frame, ready for display.
Dimensions
Frame
Height: 30.5 in
Width: 42.5 in
Depth: 2.6 in
Canvas
Height: 23.2 in
Width: 35.4 in
Provenance
Private collection.
Previously sold by Cheffins, Cambridge, 2023, Lot 64, catalogued as attributed to Lai Fong.
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD®, with accompanying historical research and provenance.
Why You'll Love It
✔ Large statement Victorian marine painting.
✔ Attributed to the noted marine artist Lai Fong.
✔ Depicts the famous Harland & Wolff clipper Slieve Roe.
✔ Strong provenance including Cheffins auction history.
✔ Ideal for collectors of maritime art, shipping history and traditional interiors.
Condition
Good antique condition with age-related craquelure, scattered historic restoration and sympathetic overpainting consistent with its age. The canvas has been professionally reinforced around the perimeter. The later frame shows minor wear commensurate with age. Displays beautifully.
Shipping
Professionally packed, fully insured and available for worldwide shipping.
Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd has dated this Antique Maritime Oil Painting to the 19th Century.
This is an independent date report produced by Sellingantiques using its own proprietary system. The process uses the photographs shown on this page. The system is never told the date the dealer has declared. This report shows that the two dates corroborate.
Source the historic in 17th, 18th, 19th & 20th century fine arts, painting, sculptures & collectibles
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd Profile Page
Oil Painting of the Harland & Wolff Clipper Slieve Roe | Attributed to Lai Fong
