Francis Hopkinson Smith, American, 1838-1915

Shipyard

Pastel

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Description
An original signed pastel by Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838–1915), depicting a lively shipyard or harbor scene with a red boat, surrounding buildings, docks, masts, and atmospheric hills in the distance. The work is signed “F. Hopkinson Smith” at the lower left.

Smith was an American artist, author, illustrator, and civil engineer whose remarkably varied career bridged public works and the arts. Born in Baltimore and later based in New York, he contributed to major engineering projects including the foundation of the Statue of Liberty, while also earning recognition for atmospheric watercolors, pastels, and drawings of Venice, harbors, coastal towns, and architectural subjects. Smith was also a successful writer and lecturer, making him one of the most versatile figures in late 19th- and early 20th-century American cultural life.

The composition has a loose, expressive handling, with warm ochre, rust, cream, gray, and blue tones. The red boat gives the scene a strong focal point, while the surrounding dockside structures and masts create a sense of movement and atmosphere. It is a decorative and collectible American work with maritime subject matter, well suited for a study, library, coastal interior, or layered gallery wall.

The work has been updated with a new double mat and remains housed in the frame in which it was found.

Object Details

Francis Hopkinson Smith, American, 1838–1915
Shipyard / Harbor Scene
Pastel on paper
Signed lower left: F. Hopkinson Smith
Framed
New double mat
Framed size: approximately 29 1/2" W × 16 3/4" H
Sight/image size: approximately 11 1/2" W × 8 1/2" H

Condition Description

The pastel presents very well, with a clear signature at lower left. It has been newly double-matted and remains in the frame in which it was found. The gilt frame has an attractive aged appearance and is in good overall condition, with visible age-related wear, rubbing, scuffs, and finish loss, especially along the edges and corners. Backing and hanging wire are present.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description. Sold as found and as shown.

Purchase Details

Price: $800
Shipping quoted separately. This is a framed work and will require careful packing for safe shipment. Because of the glazing and frame size, additional packing materials may be used to help protect the artwork in transit. Please inquire for additional photographs, condition details, or a shipping estimate.

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