25/03/2024
In the photograph :
Commodore Jerry Dowling accepting the painting from Niall O’Farrell prior to the Pearl lunch, February 23rd, 2024
Title : Midnight on Dublin Bay C.1860
Artist : Joseph Fitzgerald RHA
Medium : Oil on Canvas
This important painting depicts the mail boat, possibly The Leinster, a paddle steamer, leaving Kingstown Harbour in 1860 at midnight bringing the mail to Holyhead for overnight delivery to London and elsewhere the following morning. This boat was state of the art, and would have been one of the fastest ships in the world at the time.
The paddle steamer is contrasted with a sailing ship and yacht trying to make harbour in rough seas.
Also depicted is a pilot boat, with a brazier to keep the crew warm, while they wait at a bouy to board a pilot to help the incoming ships.
This very important historical picture of the newly built Kingstown Harbour by Joseph Fitzgerald RHA fully depicts the Harbour fully functioning in its new role as the main conduit of communication between Ireland and Britain. Fitzgerald was a regular exhibitor at the annual Royal Hibernian Academy Exhibition and lived locally in Dalkey.
I am delighted to accept this most generous gift from RIYC Member Niall O’Farrell. I hope our members enjoy and treasure this painting its new home in the Royal Irish Yacht Club for many years to come.