SOLD
 
This is one of the most striking woolwork pictures we've had the honour to offer for sale. This 'woollie' portrays 'Defender', the winner of the America's Cup yacht race in 1895.
 
'Defender' was a sloop with an all-metal construction (steel, aluminium, and manganese bronze). It was designed by Nathan Greene Hereshoff and built by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company. 'Defender' was part-owned by William Kissam Vanderbilt, and was part of the elite New York Yacht Club. In 1895 'Defender' was the U. S. victor of the tenth America's Cup, against the British keel cutter 'Valkyrie III'.
 
The woolwork is beautifully stylised, particularly in the graphic portrayal of the sea. In very good condition with strong, bright colours. A couple of minor stains to outer edges. Gilt pine frame.
 
Provenance: Until the 1970s, this woolwork was part of the private collection of Cornish artists Ernest and Dod Procter.