Description

A group of three signed maritime etchings by Reynolds Beal (1866–1951), dated 1928, 1929, and 1938. The works depict a tall-masted vessel moored at a working harbor, a fully rigged sailing ship under way, and a busy waterfront crowded with ships, rigging, docks, and maritime activity. Beal’s training in naval architecture is evident in his confident handling of hulls, masts, and rigging, while the animated water, distant craft, dockside figures, and working details prevent the scenes from becoming merely technical studies.

Viewed together, the etchings form a particularly cohesive record of Beal’s enduring fascination with ships and harbors. The contrast between the solitary vessel at sea and the densely worked harbor subjects gives the group both visual variety and a strong shared maritime character.

Beal was an American painter and printmaker best known for marine subjects, harbors, landscapes, and scenes of coastal life. Born in New York and trained initially in naval architecture at Cornell University, he later studied art at the Art Students League and with William Merritt Chase at Shinnecock. Beal traveled and sailed extensively along the American coast, drawing directly upon that experience in paintings and prints distinguished by close observation, lively line, and an evident understanding of ships and the sea. He was the elder brother of artist Gifford Beal and became associated with both American Impressionism and the early-20th-century revival of etching.

Object Details

Artist: Reynolds Beal
Dates: 1866–1951
Title:Three Maritime Etchings
Dates: 1928, 1929, and 1938
Medium: Etching on paper
Subjects: Sailing ship at sea; tall-masted vessel in harbor; working waterfront with moored ships
Signatures: Each signed and dated in pencil in the lower margin
Presentation: Each framed under glass in a narrow black frame with a cream mat
Dimensions: Add individual plate, sheet, and framed dimensions once confirmed
Sale format: Offered as a group of three

Condition

The etchings appear to be in generally good vintage condition, with the printed lines remaining strong and clearly legible. Visible age-related toning, scattered foxing, and discoloration are present to varying degrees, particularly in the exposed margins and mats. The mats show pronounced overall yellowing and darker discoloration near some frame edges. Frames display scratches, abrasions, corner wear, and other signs of age and use.

The works have not been examined outside their frames; therefore, the condition of the complete sheets, reverse sides, mounting materials, and areas concealed beneath the mats cannot be confirmed. Frames, mats, glazing, and hanging hardware are included as-is.

Purchase Details

Price: $600, set of three
Shipping quoted separately. Please inquire for additional photographs, condition details, or a shipping estimate.