Finish—First International Race for America's Cup, August 8, 1870

Samuel Colman

Created:
Movement:
1870
Realism
key Notes:
Maritime competition; 19th-century regatta.
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Dimensions:
30 3/16 x 60 1/8 in. (76.7 x 152.7 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Finish—First International Race for America's Cup, August 8, 1870" is a painting by American artist Samuel Colman, created in 1870. The artwork depicts the conclusion of the inaugural international yacht race for the America's Cup, which took place off the coast of New York. Colman captures the excitement and competitive spirit of the event, showcasing the yachts and the spectators gathered to witness the race. The painting reflects the growing popularity of yachting in the United States during the late 19th century. Colman was known for his landscapes and marine subjects, and this work exemplifies his ability to convey movement and atmosphere. The specific details of the commission or the painting's exhibition history are not well-documented. The painting is part of the collection at the New-York Historical Society.

Description of the work:

"Finish—First International Race for America's Cup, August 8, 1870" by Samuel Colman is an oil on canvas painting that captures a moment of intense competition on the water. The composition features a dynamic arrangement of sailing vessels, prominently displaying their billowing sails, which are rendered with a sense of movement and energy. The artist employs a vibrant color palette, utilizing blues and whites to depict the sea and sky, contrasted with the colorful hulls of the yachts. The brushwork is fluid, conveying the motion of the waves and the excitement of the race. The background includes a distant shoreline, suggesting a sense of place and context for the event. The overall atmosphere of the painting reflects the thrill of maritime competition and the significance of the America's Cup in American sailing history.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Finish—First International Race for America's Cup, August 8, 1870