Montague Dawson R.S.M.A., F.R.S.A.

Purchased by the previous owner in 1961 and thence by descent

Original canvas. The surface appears slightly dirty otherwise in good original condition. Under ultraviolet light there appear to be no signs of retouching. 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."

Timaru was an iron full-rigged skysail yarder, built by Scott of Greenock on the River Clyde and launched in December during the harsh winter of 1874. It was commissioned by Patrick Henderson & Co of the Albion Line along with her sister-ships Oamaru; Dunedin; Auckland. At this time full-rigged sailing ships were still being built in Scotland but steam-ships were beginning to replace them. The ship was initially named the Scotia but was later re-named Timaru in honour of the port in New Zealand, whose Rowing Club was founded in the same year as the ship’s launch. Measuring 239 feet in length it had a capacity to hold five-hundred passengers on the emigration route to the New World. It was later converted with a refrigeration system so that it could be used to transport frozen meat - particularly lamb - from New Zealand.