Series of Nautical Etchings: HMS Resolution and HMS Discovery
Print series on paper mounted to decorative plaque boards • Signed 'John Gardner' (British nautical illustrator known for maritime reconstructions)
Style & Movement
Maritime Realism / Traditional Nautical Illustration
Medium & Technique
Intaglio printing (etching or engraving) with fine-line hatching and stippling techniques
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970-1990), likely commemorative in nature
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8x10 inches or 9x12 inches each; mixed landscape and portrait orientations
Subject Description
Four scenes depicting Captain James Cook's vessels, specifically HMS Resolution and HMS Discovery. The scenes include ships in calm waters, coastal exploration, and interaction with indigenous figures in a rowboat, emphasizing 18th-century naval architecture and British exploration history.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. Visible foxing and yellowing on the paper supports and surface wear on the black mounts.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $200 for the set of four
Auction Estimate
$50 - $120
Provenance History
Likely commercial production for nautical enthusiasts or museum gift shops; no specific gallery labels visible.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the mid-to-late 20th-century interest in the 'Age of Discovery.' While commercial in format, they provide accurate historical reconstructions of famous vessels from Cook’s third voyage.
Notable Features
Each print features a distinct signature in the lower right and includes detailed labeling of the ships (e.g., 'Resolution', 'Discovery') within the plate.
Condition Issues
Significant yellowing/toning of the paper. Dark spots (foxing) are visible, especially in the top right image. Surface scuffing and dust accumulation on the black velvet/painted borders.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning to remove foxing. Recommend removing from acidic board mounts and re-framing with UV-protective glass and acid-free matting to prevent further deterioration.