The Forge on Deck, Night of August 9th: Preparing the Iron Plating for Capstan 1865 - 1866

Robert Charles Dudley’s 1865-1866 watercolor, "The Forge on Deck, Night of August 9th: Preparing the Iron Plating for Capstan," depicts a scene of intense labor on a ship’s deck. The painting captures the moment when sailors work by lantern light to forge iron plating for a ship’s capstan. The artist’s realistic style conveys the physicality and hardship of the sailors' work. Dudley, known for his nautical scenes, expertly conveys the ship’s environment and the sailors' dedication to their task. The painting is a testament to the tireless efforts required to maintain the ships that connected the world during the 19th century.