Alexander Stuart (American, 1831-1898) oil on canvas marine or nautical painting of the ship S.S. City of Sydney, a Pacific Mail Steamship Company vessel which departed San Francisco for Manila in 1898 for service in the Spanish American War. The ship is depicted in calm waters with figures on board, with a coastline and several other boats in the background. Signed lower right and titled lower left. Housed in a molded giltwood frame. Sight: 17 1/2" H x 29 1/2" W. Framed: 22 1/4" H x 34 1/2" W. Artist biography: "Born in Scotland, Alexander Stuart became a painter of ship portraits who was listed in the census as living in New York in 1860. From 1863 to 1866, he served in the U.S. Navy and then spent the remainder of his life living along the Delaware River area near Philadelphia, Camden, Wilmington, etc. He worked for shipbuilders." Source: Peter Falk, "Who Was Who in American Art."

PROVENANCE: The Estate of Raymond White, Nashville, Tennessee.

CONDITION: Relined. 3 1/2" and 1 1/2" repaired tears to sky, upper left quadrant with corresponding inpainting evident under UV inspection. 1/4" flake to cloud area near center. Frame shows wear and discoloration to gilding with several scattered losses.