FDA-P.598-2023
Parts
Object number
FDA-P.598-2023
Object type
Identification
Title
Seascape
Fishing Boats in Surf
Fishing Boats in Surf
Title Type
Common name
Previous title
Previous title
Description
Painted view of sail boats in surf; aqua blue sea, bright sky
Comments
Howard Russell Butler (1856-1934) was an American landscape and portrait artist who became a professional artist after studying physics and practising law. He was particularly known for his seascapes, which demonstate his ability to capture the effects of light and changing skies. Butler was commissioned by the U.S. Naval Observatory Eclipse Team to record solar eclipses, and became a notable astronomical artist at a time when colour photography was unable to capture fleeting effects. This seascape evokes the play of waves and sea foam, the milky light of the sun in an overcast sky, and the motion of sails and sailors in the wind.
Description
Dimensions
height (frame): 800mm
width (frame): 556mm
width (frame): 556mm
Material
oil paint
Materials & techniques note
Oil on canvas
Production
Person
Butler, Howard Russell, 1856 - 1934 (artist)
Date
1886
History and association
Object history note
Provenance: Collection of Richard Henry Allen Amis (K.S. 1945-50; 1932-2018); by whom bequeathed to Eton College
Exhibited: 'Elemental', Verey Gallery, Eton College, 6 November 2025 to 14 June 2026 (catalogue number 43)
Exhibited: 'Elemental', Verey Gallery, Eton College, 6 November 2025 to 14 June 2026 (catalogue number 43)
