"South Sea Whale Fishery"

hand colored engraving

PRINTS
Huggins, W. J.; Sutherland, T.
Indonesia, Buru
1824; 1825
paper
overall: 16 1/2 x 21 in.

Hand-colored aquatint of W. J. Huggins painting titled "South Sea Whale Fishery," engraving by T. Sutherland; painting originally published January 1, 1825. Aquatint depicts whaling scene featuring ships AMELIA WILSON and CASTOR; at least six whaleboats depicted hunting pack of whales, jaw of whale being cut by crew members of whaling ship in the background. Text narration of scene printed along in-plate: 'The Head of a large Whale in the Agonies of Death'; 'A Boat destroy; d by a Wounded Whale'. Additionally printed along in-plate: 'PAINTED BY W.J. HUGGINS / Marine Painter to his MAJESTY'; 'ENGRAVED BY T. SUTHERLAND'; 'late London, Published Jany. 1.1825 by W.J. Huggins. Marine Painter; 105, Leadenhall Street.' Title with extended information reads, 'South Sea Whale Fishery / A representation of the Ships Amelia Wilson & Castor off the Island of Bouro with their Boats & Crew in the various process of Fishing, shewing the manner of the Spermacetti / Whales are caught also the mode of cutting them into the Ship & Boiling the Oil upon Deck. / This Plate is most respectfully Dedicated to Ph. Skelton. And.w Stirton & Wm. Nichols Esqrs. Owners of the said Ships by their most Obedient humble Servant / W.J. Huggins.' Publishing information duplicated along the bottom edge of in-plate, reads, 'London, Published January 1.1825 by W.J. Huggins, Marine Painter. No. 105 Leadenhall Street (late from No. 36)'. Overall: 16 1/2 x 21 in.

2024.61.4