Bidspirit auction | Framed 19th Century Maritime Lithograph
Framed 19th Century Maritime Lithograph of Shipwreck - The central subject is a three-masted clipper ship shown in distress among turbulent, high-crested waves near jagged rocky outcroppings. The scene includes two lifeboats; one is prominently featured in the mid-ground manned by multiple oarsmen, and a smaller boat is shown navigating the waves closer to the main ship. It is housed in an ornate period-style frame featuring a deep-relief molded motif of oak leaves and acorns. The reverse of the frame is secured with a traditional three-panel horizontal wood backing and old hanging wire. Overall frame dimension: approximately 24.5 x 17.5 inches. The print shows significant age-related wear, including overall toning and yellowing of the paper. Minor foxing and small scattered spots are visible throughout the image area. The ornate frame is in distressed condition, showing substantial losses to the gesso and gilded surface, particularly at the corners and along the lower edge. The remaining finish on the frame exhibits heavy crazing and a crackled texture throughout.