T. Bailey (American, Early 20th Century), Sailing Ship at Sea

Oil on canvas, signed at the lower right, presented in a giltwood frame.

Stretcher size 31 x 24 in.; Frame dimensions 37 x 29 3/4 in.

“T. Bailey” is a pseudonym used in the early 20th century for marine paintings produced around Cape Ann and sold by dealer Morris Hambro, who allegedly bought inexpensive unsigned works, added the Bailey signature, and resold them at a profit; various artists, including William Frederick Paskell and Max Berman, have been linked to the name. However, descendants of Harry Hambro Howe dispute the claim that Bailey was fictitious, asserting that Captain T. Bailey Howe was a real artist and whaling captain who taught his son, Harry Hambro Howe, to paint, supported by period newspaper articles and advertisements. Additional family accounts and research suggest multiple artists may have been involved, and the true identity behind “T. Bailey” remains unresolved.

Craquelure, stretcher lines, yellowing to the varnish, small abrasion to lower center, a few surface scuffs.

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