Bidspirit auction | 1840 Henry Papprill Hand Colored

1840 Henry Papprill Hand Colored Aquatint The Steam Ship President - A 19th century hand colored aquatint engraving of the transatlantic steamship SS President in a large bird's eye maple frame. The print depicts the large paddle steamer navigating heavy seas alongside several smaller sailing vessels. The composition is rich with maritime detail, showing the ship's rigging, central red funnel, and various flags including a pennant reading PRESIDENT. The sea is rendered with dramatic, foaming white crests against a cloudy sky. The lower margin contains extensive technical data and formal dedications. A central title reads This View of the STEAM SHIP PRESIDENT, is with permission most respectfully dedicated to THE BRITISH AND AMERICAN STEAM NAVIGATION COMPANY, by their obed.t & humble Servants. Ackermann & Comp.y. The print identifies S.K.G.J. PINXIT. at the lower left and H. PAPPRILL, SCULPT. at the lower right. Technical specifications are organized in columns detailing the vessel's length of 268 feet, 2366 tons displacement, and 800 horsepower engines. The publication line states LONDON, PUBLISHED MAY 20TH 1840, BY ACKERMANN & COMP.Y 96 STRAND. The artwork is mounted within a multi-layered mat featuring a blue accent line and a large, dark wood frame with a gilded inner lip.