John Steven Dews

STRUCTURE Original canvas PAINT SURFACE The paint surface is in excellent condition, clean and ready to hang ULTRAVIOLET UV light reveals no sign of retouching. FRAME Held in a fine modern gilt painted frame in good condition
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Meteor was commissioned in 1908 by Kaiser Wilhelm to promote German yachting prowess and provide competition for the British and American crews. Whilst the schooner was very powerful she was frequently out sailed, particularly by the American schooner  Westward.  On a number of occasions, in strong winds, her crew lost control of her. The Kaiser did not like to be beaten in a yacht race and often ignored the racing rules. Many of his competitors overlooked these incidents rather than create a diplomatic incident.

Waterwitch was built for Cecil Whitaker for the sole purpose of beating Meteor, but failed.  Germania was built by Gustav Krupp to the design of Max Oertz of Hamburg. Meteor was also designed by Max Oertz as a development of Germania.