The Boston Clipper, Lightning 1854

This watercolor, “The Boston Clipper, Lightning,” was painted by P. Giles at an unknown date. Here, the ship is rendered with close attention to its form. Clippers like the Lightning were built for speed, with sharp lines and a huge sail area. This watercolor would have been affordable and easily portable. It's likely that it was made for someone involved in the maritime economy – a sailor, a shipbuilder, or even just a fan. What makes this image so interesting to me is that the ship itself, though built of wood and canvas, was essentially a machine, carefully calibrated for maximum efficiency. The ship connected global markets, allowing raw materials and finished goods to move around the world at an unprecedented pace. By focusing on the qualities of the material and the techniques used, we can expand the boundaries of traditional art history, and challenge the distinctions between high art and craft.