Magna Carta copy travels to USA: RMS EMPRESS OF AUSTRALIA WEARING THE STANDARD OF HM KING GEORGE VI, ESCORTED BY HMS SOUTHAMPTON AND GLASGOW, OFF NOVA SCOTIA, SUMMER 1939

(MP029). Frank Watson Wood (1862-1953). Watercolour signed and dated 1939.

RMS EMPRESS OF AUSTRALIA WEARING THE STANDARD OF H

Limited Edition: 149

Standard size 15 x 5ins (38 x 12.5cms) approx.

Price band: £90-125

Purchase or enquire about this print

A distinctly chilly scene; icy looking seas lightened by the sparkling white of EMPREES of AUSTRALIA and icebergs which in turn contrast with the dark grey Royal Escorts and their bright bunting. Wood's last Royal Tour (at the age of 77) and a striking picture.  The terms of Wood's employment as Artist on Tour would have required him to submit to the King  all his work painted on the Tour; and those paintings HM chose not to keep would be handed back to the artist.  This one is one of several we know Wood painted of the scenes of the Royal Squadron amongst the ice (indeed two or three are offered on this website); and they have a sister work in the Royal Collection at Windsor (accession "RI 22685").