FRENCH CLIPPER SHIP “MARIE COLLET” Approaching Hong Kong Harbour Dated 1868   Oil on Muslin                                             19th Century Unframed 22 1/2" x 17”                             Framed  27 3/4" x 22" Designated for Capt. C. Fockenberger 1868 Signed - Chop on back of canvas probably indicates the Chinese Harbor Artist          “Chop” of the Artist   Presented is a fine example of a 19th Century China Trade painting. The draftsmanship of the unknown artist is exceptional and shows an intimate knowledge of his subject matter. The painting is oil on muslin, has not been restored, shows crackelure, more pronounced on the bottom of the painting. The artist was an excellent draftsman, and the details of the ship and sails are pristine. As this painting was done at the height of the China Trade Period, the number of shipping companies involved in the trade during that period was extensive. We have not been able to identify the ship or its owner. It was very common for the Captains of these ships to employ the harbor artists in the Chinese ports of the day, at a very nominal fee, to paint a portrait of their ships. These paintings have become great collector acquisitions and are much sought after. This painting of “Marie Collet” appears to be in its original rosewood frame as some imperfections in the frame and gold liner would indicate. We recently discovered a wonderful book about this period in our history, and how important the China Trade was to the new American country. It is “Barons of the Sea”, by Steven Ujifusa. It puts the reader right into the period and explains what led to the design and development of these beautiful “Tea Clipper” sailing ships. This was a very dynamic period in our country’s history, laying the foundation for our development as a prominent player on the world stage.   CONDITION: The painting is in reasonably good condition considering its age, and that no restoration has been done. There is extensive craquelure as pictured, most prominently on the bottom of the painting.. The frame is rosewood with a gold liner, and shows some missing finish. We have photographed areas that we feel show damage or finishing issues.   Detailing the “damage” to the painting   PROVENANCE: The painting was acquired in the normal course of business. OUR UNCONDITIONAL NO NONSENSE GUARANTEE: If not completely satisfied with your purchase it may be returned, if without damage, within three days of receipt in its original packaging. Return items must be insured for their full value. Only a prior email authorization by us for the return is required. Shipping charges are included in this offer within the continental United States if the error is due to our fault. FLAT RATE SHIPPING within the 48 contiguous States $95.00.  International buyers welcome, but inquire first. We have satisfied customers worldwide. ACCEPTED FORMS OF PAYMENT are Bank wire transfer, cashier's check, money order, or personal check in which case the item will be held until cleared. Prices are quoted net us us, so the use of PayPal or credit cards will result in additional fees. Copyright 2019 by Land And Sea Collection™, All Rights Reserved