SMITH, Constantine.

[West Indies]. "Representation of the United States ship ERIE in a Hurricane" 1827.

CONSTANTINE SMITH (American, c. 1799-1835). "Representation of the United States ship ERIE in a Hurricane" Watercolor and ink on paper, 22 x 18 ½ inches, within original glazed, carved frame. The USS Erie was a sloop-of-war designed and built by Thomas Kemp, a Baltimore shipwright celebrated for his fast topsail schooners that were employed in the privateering trade. Launched 3 November 1813 but unable to reach the open sea because of the British blockade, she remained in port until peace was declared in 1815. She sailed for the Algerian War in Commodore William Bainbridge's squadron in May, arriving after peace had been concluded. Erie remained in the Mediterranean to protect American commerce for nearly 5 years, returning to New York in January 1820 and was laid up for repairs for 3 ½ years. Lengthened to 122 feet with 611 tonnage, she returned to the Med station for 3 years. From 1827 to 1832, she was based at Pensacola, Florida, returning north to New York or Norfolk, Virginia for necessary repairs. Captained by Daniel Turner, Erie patrolled the West Indies and the coast of Mexico, suppressing piracy and the slave trade. Placed in command of the Caledonia by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry (friend, mentor and fellow Rhode Islander), Turner fought with valor during the decisive 1813 Battle of Lake Erie--the beginning of what would be a long and distinguished naval career. This watercolor was presented to Turner by its artist, Constantine Smith, while serving under him as the Erie's lieutenant of Marines. It portrays the ship's successful weathering of a West Indies hurricane during 3-7 September 1827. The Irish-born officer had previously attended the US Military Academy at West Point (resigning in 1819) and this watercolor may have benefited from his instruction in drawing while there. Lieutenant Smith, then serving in the 2nd US Artillery, was killed during Osceola's surprise attack on Fort King on Christmas Day, 1835. PROVENANCE: Commodore Daniel Turner and thence by descent in the Turner family of Newport, Rhode Island until 2015. CONDITION: a few mended short tears along edge of legend below and toning to the same; edgewear to the frame. Item #83

Price: $3,000.00