Antique 1834 Hand-Colored Maritime Aquatint – H.C.S. MacQueen off the Start – William John Higgins

A magnificent antique 19th-century hand-colored aquatint depicting the H.C.S. MacQueen off the Start, 26th January 1832, etched by C. Rosenburg after a painting by William John Higgins and published by Higgins in 1834.

This beautifully detailed maritime scene captures the imposing sailing vessel making her way through lively seas off Start Point on the southern coast of England. With billowing sails, rolling waves, and atmospheric skies, the composition conveys both the power of the sea and the elegance of early 19th-century sailing ships.

The artist's careful attention to the vessel's rigging, sails, and proportions gives the work a remarkable sense of authenticity. Delicate hand-applied coloring brings warmth and depth to the scene, while the subtle variations in light and water create the luminous quality so admired in Georgian maritime prints.

William John Higgins was an accomplished marine painter associated with the royal court, described as Marine Painter to His Majesty King George. His work reflects the strong British tradition of maritime painting during an era when sailing ships played a vital role in international trade and naval history.

The original composition commemorates the H.C.S. MacQueen off Start Point on January 26, 1832, while the aquatint itself was published in 1834. This combination of historical subject matter, accomplished engraving, and hand coloring makes it especially appealing to collectors of early maritime art.

The print has been elegantly custom framed and matted beneath glass in a substantial solid wood frame, creating a beautifully finished presentation that is ready to hang.

Whether displayed in a traditional library, gentleman's study, coastal residence, or alongside a collection of nautical antiques, this impressive work brings a wonderful sense of history and old-world sophistication to any interior.

A striking example of 19th-century maritime printmaking, combining artistic beauty, historical interest, and the timeless romance of the age of sail.

 

Condition

Very good antique condition, with minimal age-appropriate wear.

The hand-colored aquatint presents beautifully, retaining its delicate detail and attractive coloration. The glass and solid wood frame have helped protect the artwork over the years.

The print has been custom framed and matted, providing an elegant presentation suitable for immediate display.

Please review all photographs carefully, paying particular attention to the artwork, matting, and frame, as they form an important part of the description. Additional photographs are always available upon request.

Please note: Decorative accessories and styling items shown in the photographs are for presentation purposes and are not included unless specifically mentioned.

 

Dimensions

• Framed Width: 26 1/2"

• Framed Height: 22 1/2"

 

Specifications

• Item #: GY3241

• Title: H.C.S. MacQueen, off the Start, 26th January 1832

• Date Published: 1834

• Artist & Publisher: William John Higgins

• Etcher: C. Rosenburg

• Origin: England

• Medium: Hand-Colored Aquatint Etching

• Subject: Maritime / Sailing Ship

• Presentation: Custom Matted & Framed Under Glass

• Frame: Solid Wood

 

Features

• Beautifully detailed Georgian maritime scene with original hand coloring

• Historical subject depicting the H.C.S. MacQueen in 1832

• Published in 1834 by noted marine painter William John Higgins

• Elegantly custom framed and ready to hang

 

Buy With Confidence

We strive to provide clear descriptions and detailed photographs that accurately represent each piece. If you would like additional photographs, including close-ups of the artwork, signatures, inscriptions, or frame, we're always happy to help.

 

Shipping & In-Store Pickup

This item ships within the contiguous USA using carrier-calculated shipping. Simply click "Add to Cart", proceed to checkout, and enter your delivery address to receive an accurate shipping rate based on your location.

The framed artwork will be professionally packed with particular care to protect the glass, frame, and print during transit.

Free in-store pickup is also available from our Cary, North Carolina showroom. Simply select "Pick Up" during checkout.

If you have any questions before placing your order, including shipping or combined purchases, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help.