The work ofFitz H ugh Lane (1804-1865), described as America's "first native marine painter of real stature " by historian j ohn Wilmerding, is distinguished by the artist's accuracy and detail, and often encompasses his fascination with the cool, radiant atmosphere of
ReJTections of tlie Sea
the New England coast. This detailed view of Gloucester's inner harbor is an example of Lane's iconic work in luminism. (Inner H arbor, G loucester, Massachuserrs, 1850, oil on canvas, by Fitz H ugh Lane. The Mariners ' Museum)
The wooden paddle steamer Esco rt dominates historic Castle Clinton as she forges past into New York harbor in this painting that combines a straightforward ship portrait and a luminist seascape. (The Steamboat Escort off the Battery, 1863, oil on canvas, by James Edward Buttersworth. The Mariners' Museum)
T he Mariners' Museum is showcasin g its rich collectio n of American and international marine arr. T he exhibit foc uses on three major sryles of marine paintingship porrrairure, narrative painting, and seascapes-by artists who demonstrate powerful co nnections ro rhe strength and majesry of rh e sea coupled with an understanding of rhe ships men built ro cross rhe oceans. The exhibit runs through the end of 2003. T HE MARINERS' M USEUM, 100 Museum Drive, Newport N ews VA 23606; 757 596-2222; web sire: www.mariner.org
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SEA HISTORY 105 , AUTUMN 2003