🌊 Masters of the Clyde – Britannia vs. Vigilant, Valkyrie II & Satanita

Historic Marine Oil Painting by Stephen J. Renard | 1894 Royal Yacht Regatta Scene

🏞️ Subject & Medium

A dramatic and historically rich marine oil painting by acclaimed British artist Stephen J. Renard, titled “Britannia On The Clyde, 1894.”

This vivid scene captures the action of the Muir Memorial Challenge Cup, part of the famed Clyde Fortnight Regatta. The royal cutter Britannia charges through turbulent Scottish waters alongside America’s Vigilant, with Valkyrie II and Satanita racing in pursuit. The dramatic encounter is set against a rugged Highland backdrop under shifting summer skies.

• Medium: Oil on card laid on board

• Date: Circa 1990s

• Signature: Hand-signed “Renard” lower corner

• Title: “Britannia On The Clyde 1894” – inscribed verso

• Scene: Britannia vs. Vigilant, Valkyrie II & Satanita at peak racing moment

🎨 Composition & Technique

This powerful composition blends movement, history, and natural grandeur in a single frame:

• Britannia and Vigilant lead in the foreground with their sails taut against strong winds

• Valkyrie II and Satanita follow closely, battling the rolling tides

• The Scottish Highlands rise softly in the background, framing the regatta’s drama

Brushstrokes:

• Finely detailed rendering of the sails, rigging, and hulls

• Loose, expressive brushwork for the sky and water creates a sense of fluidity and momentum

• Delicate highlights bring life to the spray and sunlit reflections

Colour Palette:

• Rich marine blues in the water, with white-crested waves

• Warm creams and off-whites for the sails, catching the light

• Subtle greys and silvers in the overcast sky, pierced by pockets of sunlit gold

• Earthy greens and browns in the distant Highlands complete the natural harmony

The result is an immersive and energetic marine landscape, layered with light, atmosphere, and technical mastery—Renard at his finest.

🖼️ Frame

The artwork is housed in its original decorative gilt frame, enhancing the historic and nautical elegance.

• Framed Dimensions:

  • Height: 28 cm

  • Width: 38.5 cm

  • Depth: 5 cm

• Display: Hanging thread attached and ready to hang

👨🎨 About the Artist – Stephen J. Renard (b. 1947)

One of Britain’s foremost marine painters, Stephen Renard is renowned for his meticulously researched and visually compelling yacht scenes.

• Born in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire

• Inspired by real sailing experience and influenced by Steven Dews

• Commissioned by British Royalty and elite yacht clubs

• Auction sales up to $55,947 USD

• Celebrated for lifelike detail, dynamic atmosphere, and technical precision

🏛️ Provenance

• Registered artwork Ref: JHS/SR1113

• Labels verso: James Starkey Fine Art International

• Sold via Shire Auction, UK

• Represented by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

• Exhibited at Famous Lord Hill Museum

🔍 Condition Report

• Painting: Very good overall condition; minor craquelure and foxing in places consistent with age

• Frame: Original gilt frame with expected antique wear; structurally sound. Light wear with minor scuffs and chips typical of age.

• Ready to Hang: Hanging wire included

🌟 Why You'll Love It:

• ✅ Original marine oil painting by Stephen J. Renard

• ✅ Features Britannia, Vigilant, Valkyrie II, and Satanita

• ✅ Dynamic brushwork & authentic period colour palette

• ✅ Museum-exhibited with documented provenance

• ✅ Original gilt frame included

• ✅ Collector-grade subject matter from a highly regarded artist

• ✅ Ideal for yacht clubs, boardrooms, and marine art collections

🌍 Worldwide Shipping Available 
Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe international delivery.

🖼️ Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

📩 Inquire now to secure this unique piece