Coast Scene, Whitby

Henry Redmore was a successful local painter who, along with John Ward (1798-1849), is believed to be the best Hull marine artist of the 19th century. He painted many local sea scenes of the Yorkshire coast, particularly on the Humber and off Scarborough and Whitby. Although his subjects were local, the influence of Dutch 17th century marine painting is apparent in his work, which pays particular attention to the rendering of skies and seas. Redmore is best known for his romantic depictions of ships on high seas, such as Coast Scene, Whitby. However, his later works are in effect genre studies of fishermen with their small craft and seaside cottages. He was active to the end of his life and there are at least four canvases dated 1887, the year of his death. Redmore's remains still lie in Hull General Cemetery under a simple headstone carved with palette and brushes.