Oil Painting of the Harland & Wolff Clipper Slieve Roe | Attributed to Lai Fong

Antique Victorian Marine Oil Painting of the Harland & Wolff Clipper Slieve Roe | Attributed to Lai Fong

Subject & Medium

An impressive late 19th-century oil on canvas depicting the famous British iron full-rigged clipper Slieve Roe under full sail off Calcutta (Kolkata), India. 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.

Delivery shipping information

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