Alfred Green

Sotheby’s, London, 6 November 2007, lot 41, where purchased by the present owner

The canvas is lined. There is a faint but stable craquelure pattern across the sky. The work appears in good overall condition, ready to hang. Ultraviolet light reveals some sweeping areas of retouching through the sky and some flecks in the sea. Held in a gilt plaster frame.
"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."

The present work depicts the view upriver towards Chatham, one of the most important Naval and Mercantile ports in England. The River Medway which flows into the Thames was painted by a number of important artists including Turner, who executed a series of views around 1808. His influence is discernible in the present work with the drama of the gathering storm and the employment of the low perspective heightening the grandeur of the man-of-war.

The variety and number of vessels evokes the significance of Britain’s Maritime industry as well as Naval power. The crew of a boat retrieve a snapped mast while a fishing boat heads for home. The inclusion of the steamship in contrast with the stately two-decker provides a subtle but pointed reminder the days of sail are numbered.

Alfred Green’s background is unclear but he painted genre and landscape subjects as well as Marine. His work was exhibited at The Royal Society of British Artists from 1844 to 1861, The British Institute in 1862, and The Royal Academy in 1861 where his address is given as Solihull Lodge near Birmingham.