"OFF THE START"
 
An original hand painted engraving.
 
W J Huggins worked for the East India Company as a sailor where he learned to draw and paint on voyages to the Far East. Upon his return his was regularly employed to paint carefully detailed pictures of the Company's ships. In 1817 he exhibited a picture in the Royal Academy and was later appointed 'Marine Painter' to both George 1V and William IV.
 
H.C.S. MACQUEEN ( Honourable Company Ship )
"OFF THE START"  26th January 1832
Painted by W.J.Huggins (Marine Painter to His Majesty)
Engraved by C Rosenburg
Published 1834 by W J Huggins
105 Leadenhall Street
 
This depicts H.C.S. MACQUEEN, an East India Company ship making sail (Red Ensign) with a small sailing vessel flying the English Flag to the right and another three masted ship flying the Dutch flag on the far left. In all, twelve vessels setting sail in choppy waters with clouds billowing above. 
An impressive piece, with impressive artistry, technique and of historical importance.