A work of art that holds its original crisp coloration is quite desirable and rare in a 19TH Century watercolor painting. This fine example is exceptional not just for this trait, but for the amazing detail Duncan was able to show with the fickle medium for this extremely early British yachting scene. Societal charm and broad appeal resound in the regatta subject matter of a yachting regatta off the coast at Lowestoft, in the English Southeast, dividing the coasts of Norfolk and Suffolk, 100 miles from London.
The full population of the coastal scene is quite amazing and intricate, with much care given each individual by the artist. The starting cannons have caught most of their attention, while some still are sitting on the concrete seawalls and benches, conversing. All people present are dressed in their formal attire, warmly coated, top-hatted and even the children are wearing shoes at the beach. This early view of British yacht racing is from the beginning era of the soon-to-be worldwide sport, only four years after the Schooner AMERICA's historic visit to British Waters. Numerous spectator are in boats on the water, and observers are onboard larger ships under the colorful pennants streaming from the rigs.
Flags reach tall from the ships and a pier-stationed Customs House, while the pier's ensign outreaches all the rest. The coastwise architecture is precisely done as well, with the artist employing softer tones and less pigment to translate the growing distance. The more vivid colors of the clothes are varied to lifelike degrees. Interesting to note that he painted three dogs into the foreground subjects as well , scampering toward the benches and concrete seawalls.
