A Scene on the Main Deck.

Hand-coloured aquatint, with two columns of text beneath. Approx. 29 x 45cm. v.g. Framed & glazed. Not in the BM; copies located at Yale, the Mariners' Museum (Virginia) and the National Maritime Museum. A wonderfully social scene of life on deck whilst in port, with seamen at ease playing cards, dancing with or kissing their partners as others read letters, play the violin or console their loved ones. The 'explanation' begins: 'In the fore-ground are three seamen playing at cards, one of whom, by the archness of his countenance, appears to have an advantage, and seems desirous of betting with his Antagonist, who, by his clenched fist, is evidently losing: the third, from his gravity, seems to be doubtful of the result.' PLEASE NOTE: For customers within the UK this item is subject to VAT at 20%.