George William Whitaker, American, 1840-1916

Harbor View

Watercolor

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Description
An original antique watercolor harbor landscape by George William Whitaker (1840–1916), signed G. W. Whitaker at lower right. The scene depicts a quiet coastal shoreline with houses set along a bluff, moored sailboats, distant vessels, and soft sunset light across calm water.

Whitaker was a prominent Rhode Island landscape painter of the late 19th and early 20th century, often referred to as the “Dean of Providence painters” or the “Dean of Rhode Island Artists.” He played an important role in the founding of the Rhode Island School of Design in 1877 and served as its first instructor of oil painting.

The work was reframed in February 2026 with acid-free double matting, acid-free backing board, and UV-protective acrylic for improved presentation and preservation. Despite a 0.75” hole at the upper center and visible age-related condition issues, the watercolor presents attractively and has strong decorative presence, especially for collectors interested in Rhode Island art, New England coastal subjects, and historic American works on paper.

Object Details
George William Whitaker, American, 1840–1916
Harbor Scene
Watercolor on paper
Signed lower right: G. W. Whitaker
Sight size: approximately 9.25" H × 20.75" W
Frame size: approximately 17.5" H × 29.625" W
Reframed February 2026 with acid-free double matting, acid-free backing board, and UV-protective acrylic

Condition Description
Antique watercolor on paper with visible age and condition issues. The sheet shows toning, foxing/spotting throughout, and a small hole or perforation measuring approximately 0.75" near the upper center. Fortunately the paper is mounted on a stiff paper backing the same color as the sky. It has since been reframed with conservation-conscious materials, including acid-free double matting, acid-free backing board, and UV-protective acrylic.

The frame presents well overall, and the watercolor remains decorative and visually appealing despite its condition issues. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description. Sold as found and as shown.

Purchase Details
Price: $500
Shipping quoted separately. Please inquire for additional photographs, condition details, or a shipping estimate.

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