In this ongoing series for Fine Art Today, we take a longer look at the history and features of a soon-to-be-available artwork of note. This week: Antonio Jacobsen, “Full Clipper Ship.”
If John James Audubon is an artist known for obsessively categorizing all the birds of America, then Antonio Jacobsen (1850–1921) is the equivalent for steam and sailboats. The Danish-born American has earned the distinction as one of the most prolific of marine artists, and over 6,000 works exist that document the thousands of vessels that frequented New York Harbor between 1873 and 1919.
Born in Copenhagen, Jacobsen attended the Royal Academy of Design before immigrating to the United States. Settling in West Hoboken, New Jersey, Jacobsen had the perfect vantage point from which to observe his subjects. The artist quickly rose to notoriety and was frequently commissioned by ship captains and owners to paint portraits of their ships. Although his paintings never sold for much during his lifetime, Jacobsen’s finest oils have commanded six-figure prices.
Featuring in Kaminski’s August 23 estate auction is a Jacobsen original, titled “Full Clipper Ship.” Just as portraitists capture the identity and character of their subjects, so too does Jacobsen harness the majestic beauty of not one, but four vessels as they bob and cut through the choppy seas. There is a dramatic sense of movement that could have viewers swaying from side to side. Jacobsen’s attention to detail is outstanding and the piece retains a vibrancy of color that is exceptional for its age.
“Full Clipper Ship” has a starting price of $6,000, with bidding opening on August 23 at 10 a.m. in Beverly, Massachusetts.
To view the full catalogue, visit Kaminski.
This article was featured in Fine Art Today, a weekly e-newsletter from Fine Art Connoisseur magazine. To start receiving Fine Art Today for free, click here.
Featured Lot: Antonio Jacobsen, “Full Clipper Ship”
