Franklyn Bassford (American, 1857-1897), Sailing Ship Under a Clouded Sky

Watercolor and gouache on paper, 1881, signed and dated at lower left, inscribed to the verso "To Fred. L. Jenkins / Compliments of Bassford / Wishing many happy returns of the day / July 8th, '81", matted and framed below glass.

Sheet size 15 3/4 x 10 1/2 in.; Frame dimensions 23 1/4 x 17 3/4 in.

Franklin Bassford was a New York-born marine artist known for his vivid and detailed depictions of yacht racing and maritime life. Beginning his career with commissions for the lithography firm Currier & Ives, he gained early recognition with his portrayal of the 1885 America’s Cup race between Puritan and Genesta. Bassford became a sought-after painter among elite yachtsmen, capturing their vessels in action. His career was cut short by his untimely death in 1897.

The sheet with spotting and toning visible to the verso, hinge-mounted at the upper edge, with pinholes to the corners.