Hull from the Humber (the buoy yacht 'Zephyr')
An accurate record of Hull's Georgian waterfront is provided by this painting, although its main interest was intended to be the portrait of the ship. The 'Zephyr' was purchased by the Hull Trinity House in 1823. In 1829 she was the first vessel to enter the newly constructed Princes Dock. She remained in service until replaced by the 'Ariel' in 1843 and was sold the following year for 205 pounds. This canvas can be dated from the nameboard 'Boyes Vittoria Tavern' that appears on the facade of what was once a notable landmark on Hull's waterfront. The Boyes family were proprietors c. 1834-9. The Hull to Gainsborough steam packet 'Pelham', tied up at the pier, was active c. 1832-6. A superb example of Ward's glowing ship portraiture, it is easy to appreciate why Ward's knowledgeable clients - the ship owners and merchants - found his attention to detail so appealing.
