Benjamin Russell (American 1804-1885) Watercolor on Paper “The Whaling Bark Canton – Cap’ Joshua G. Lapham”,” signed and dated lower right Russel 1870.
25 in. x 34 ½ in.

Russell was a 19th century American artist best known for his watercolor depictions of New England whaling scenes. Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts Russell only began painting in his late 30s after working as a cooper aboard a whaling ship. While his works are somewhat naive in regards to use of perspective and depth, they are appreciated for being some of the most accurate depictions of the 19th century whaling experience predating the advent of photography.

Provenance: The Sandra P. Doubleday Collection;
Removed from 28 Easton Street, Nantucket