FAMAG 2006.10.2
Turner, Joseph Mallord William RA (1775-1851): Saltash, Cornwall, engraver: Smith, William Raymond , printer: Heath, Charles and Jennings, Robert, dated 1827, Line engraving, R218, Image Size: 164 x 232mm, Plate mark size: 253 x 316mm , Sheet size: 436 x 604mm.
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Picturesque Views in England and Wales
1825-1838
The drawing from which this print was taken is the only one to have been dated (1825, W794) suggesting it may have been intended to start the series. However, as the town only appears in the background the more representative ?Rievaulx abbey, Yorkshire? (R209) was chosen instead. When Turner visited the Tamar in 1811 its naval dockyards would have been teeming with men o?war and the sailors that manned them. In the dockyard channel known as the Hamoaze some vessels were used to house French prisoners-of-war. Of the two hulks on the left, the other than that seen stern-on, appears to be a case in point with its canvas awning and on-deck washing line.
The sailor in the right middle distance can be seen waving a straw hat. Such boaters were given to seamen on their return from lengthy voyages which suggests we are witnessing a homecoming scene. The rowing boats crammed with matelots and their families, the rich golds and crimsons and air of celebration in later afternoon sunshine reinforces this supposition. From the foredge to the distant tower of St Nicholas's chapel Turner's bold, original composition not only evinces his creativity but also a technical facility which John Ruskin's praised for its "truthful indistinctiveness of the reflections on water".
The original for this print is in the British Museum, London