Adam's IRISH OLD MASTERS 5th November 2024

102 Matthew Kendrick was one of the finest of the Irish marine artists of the Victorian period and was known for his convincing seascapes and portrayal of vessels’ ( Art and Architecture of Ireland , 2, 331). His skill in this regard, nicely evidenced in this view of Dublin Bay, was learned first hand as he had sailed on a fishing vessel in Newfoundland and he ‘was in demand to helm in Dublin yacht races’ ( ibid ). He availed of these sailing connections to promote his marine art. Having trained in the Dublin Society Schools from 1825, he exhibited at the Royal Hibernian Acade - my for several decades from the 1820s to 1870s. In 1850 he was elected a member to the RHA and later served as its Keeper and was further honoured by being appointed the marine painter of the Royal Irish Yacht Club. Kendrick who knew the waters of Dublin Bay extremely well, liked to include its familiar coastline, from Howth to Dalkey, in his paintings. Contemporary critics attested to the power and authenticty of his work due to the fact that he was also a capable seaman who knew the vessels and atmospheric conditions he painted intimately. His View between Bullock and Sandycove , for example,was praised in 1863 as a ‘fine, bold production which a sailor would immediately perceive to be true’. The same can be said of the present work showing a brigantine working its way in a zigzag pattern across the Cork harbour channel fighting an incoming tide. The wind is laying the ship over as she struggles toward the marker buoy. In contrast between old and new, the double wheel paddle steam ship behind and to the right are confidently taking the direct route, unconcerned by the difficulties caused by the prevailing winds and tides emphasising a future that was fast approaching. The military fortress of Camden can be seen on the hill top to the left above Crosshaven, whilst Cobh and Spike Island serve as the backdrop for the yachts in the distance.