En route to Canton, across the Atlantic, around the Cape of Good Hope, the EMPRESS of CHINA passed though the Straits of Sunda that separates the coasts of Sumatra and Java, in July of 1784, five months after departing from New York. This serene view of the EMPRESS of CHINA at dawn shows her in very calm seas and winds so light that all the studding sail has been added. A studding sail was an extra sail fastened to extensions of the yardarms, much like drifter sails on modern sailboats. This allowed the ship to move using the lightest breeze and not get becalmed. Oil lamps are glowing in the Captain’s stern cabin . The serenity of this scene belies the fact that the EMPRESS of CHINA was soon to enter the South China Sea which was rampant with piracy and dangers other than weather or navigation.
Image Size: 20’ x 30” ; unf....$1000.00
