Michael J Whitehand (b.1941) - A British Two-Decker anchored off the coast

Michael James Whitehand was 'born in Bridlington, East Yorkshire, this self-taught artist is one of group of contemporary painters producing well-crafter works of historical events and ships, and especially of the great days of yacht racing, when kings competed with huge, heroically sparred, cutters and schooners. He has been painting since 1968 and works from a studio in Cornwall. He has exhibited in Britain and in Chicago, and some of his paintings have been used for colour reproductions and calendars. The Hamilton Collection produced a set of porcelain wall plates from his paintings of famous ships.' [1]
 
This large and impressive painting is done in the historical style of the early Dutch marine school taking inspiration from Willem Van de Velde the Younger and later the British artist Peter Monamy. It depicts a British Two-Decker anchored off the coast in calm water with cattle in the foreground.
 
Medium: oil on canvas, signed l.r. 'M Whitehand 87', 54 x 75cm (framed 68 x 89cm).
 
Bibliography:
 
[1] E.H.H. Archibald (2000) The Dictionary of Sea Painters of Europe and America, Antique Collectors' Club: Woodbridge, 3rd Edition, p.233 (see entry on artist).
 
Condition report: generally very good for its age. Please see photos.