America racing Maria, New York 1851 - Steven Dews

In her original grey livery, the newly launched Schooner America has joined in race with the sloop Maria off the famous Battery Headland of New York. Maria, a sloop owned by John C. Stevens, has left her New York Yacht Club anchorage to defend her title of the moment as the fastest yacht in America. In the sheltered harbour course, she did so, but the trial of America showed the brilliance of George Steers’ design. America of course goes on to make history in her transatlantic crossing and race with the British Royal Yacht Squadron on August 31, 1851. 

 

This painting is a masterwork by Dews, with superb, light, shadow and drama. The depiction of the sea is a superior presentation. Dews exhibits a technical detail that is top quality and his artistic vision makes this painting a historic record of inspiration for all aspects of the yacht building.