Adam's IRISH OLD MASTERS 5th November 2024

Irish Old Masters| 5 November 2024 www.adams.ie 109 74 GEORGE MOUNSEY WHEATLEY ATKINSON (1806-1884) Racing Yachts at the entrance to Cork Harbour, with Roches Point Lighthouse Oil on canvas, 85 x 132cm € 10,000 - 15,000 The home to the Royal Cork Yacht Club, founded in 1720, the oldest yacht club in the world, Cork holds rightful claim as the birthplace of yacht racing as a sport for gentlemen. The 19th century saw the true explosion of the sport evidenced by the number of yacht clubs founded in that period. The Americas Cup match races were first instituted in 1851, following the foundation of the New York yacht club in 1844. It is interesting to note that the club was founded aboard John Cox Stevens yacht “GimCrack”. The yacht in the foreground of this painting closely resembles a yacht also named “Gim Crack’ as identified in “A History of the Royal Cork Yacht Club”, published by the yacht club to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the foundation of the club. That painting is also by Ak - tinson, and shows the yacht passing the finish line opposite Cobh (Previously in the collection of the Port of Cork, but now donated to the Crawford Gallery). In 1854, the Royal Cork Yacht Club transitioned from using various premises in Cove as clubhouses to occupying a newly constructed building on land donated by Admiral J.H. Smith Barry. This new clubhouse, situated directly on the water - front, quickly became a prominent yachting hub and a key social venue for Cork society. The yacht club records that by the mid-19th century, membership in the Club had become highly coveted, with records indicating that many applicants were unsuccessful in their attempts to join. One notable individual who gained member - ship was Prince Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria, who later ascended as Emperor of Mexico. Prince Ferdinand, the brother of Emperor Franz Joseph and founder of the Imperial Austrian Navy, was considered for membership at a special meeting of the General Committee on 30 November 1858. During the meeting, concerns were raised that admitting foreign mem - bers might lead to the withdrawal of certain privileges granted by the Lords of the Admiralty. After thorough deliberation, however, Prince Ferdinand’s candidacy was approved, and he was subsequently elected and admitted as a member.