British Merchantman in the River Mersey off Liverpool

Robert Salmon

British

After training as an artist, Robert Salmon moved from Liverpool, England, to Boston in 1828. A reportedly eccentric and solitary man, he lived for years in a small dwelling on one of Boston’s many wharves. His paintings reflect the Dutch tradition of maritime painting, featuring a low horizon line and clarity of light. His paintings are rich in miniature detail, and it is possible that his incredible attention to detail was fostered by the material values of mercantile Boston.

Born

1775

Died

1845

British Merchantman in the River Mersey off Liverpool by Robert Salmon

What are the landmarks of your hometown?

Salmon’s painting shows a precisely rendered commercial ship (or merchantman) near the British port city of Liverpool. The painstaking detail allow experts to identify the type of ship and its location; this attention extends to the buildings on the waterfront: Salmon depicted significant, identifiable landmarks, including the spires of specific churches. The artist’s representation is so precise that the painting can be dated using these structures as a guide.

Medium

Oil on canvas

Credit

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John D. Rockefeller 3rd

Item ID

1979.7.89

Dimensions

28 x 50 5/8 in. (71.1 x 128.6 cm)

Date

1809

Country

United States