Paintings of the America's Cup 1851-1987

The Paintings of the America's Cup presents a unique collection of beautiful paintings depicting dramatic scenes from every match since 1851. There are enlarged details of each oil painting, as well as maps of the courses, and line illustrations of every competing yacht.The America's Cup has been the world's most prestigious race for ocean-going yachts since the first contest was held between America and Great Britain in1851. American boat builders had, by that time, become world-famous for their seaworthy and speedy craft, and John C. Stevens, Commodore of the recently formed New York Yacht Club, was persuaded to commission a yacht, America, to compete against the British for money.The artist, Tim Thompson, started painting the sea when he lived with his parents on the tiny island of Herm in the Channel Islands. He now works from his studio in Cornwall. His fine technique is reminiscent of former great marine artists and his paintings, noted for their superb expression of wind and light, are increasingly in demand throughout the world.Ranulf Rayner, recognising the young artist's amazing talent, arranged an exhibition for him at Cowes on the Isle of Wight, where the yacht America had first won the Cup. The exhibition was so successful that he commissioned Thompson to paint the twenty-six large canvasses which appear in this beautiful book. The introduction covers the background to the Cup, and touches on the fascinating and painstaking research undertaken in order to create these quite exceptional paintings, each accompanied by its own absorbing story. This superb volume will undoubtedly be treasured by all who love the sea and sailing. 1986. A very good copy in a very good d/w.…