Upon a dynamic sea forever still, Liverpool artist Samuel Walters offers a complete narrative of the ship SIAM being met by a pilot. From the period which many authorities consider to be Walters' best, the early 19th Century ship is hove to and holding for Pilot Cutter No. 8, PRINCE OF WALES, as she works her way out from the pilot station near Point Lynas.. Once onboard, the local guide will assist the vessel over the Mersey into Liverpool proper.
The three flag hoist at her mainmast is a telling designation, in the older Watson's or Liverpool code, in effect alongside the Marryat's code in 1839. Designating "1800-5-5"", she is indeed the same ship which the finely detailed Asian gentleman figurehead holding a walking stick would suggest, if not for the clearly visible nameboard. Following his father miles' tendency, SIAM is shown in two positions, with her stern visible and sails driving her ‘round on her heel'. Both views are strikingly realistic and artistic.
SIAM was built by in 1837 at Whitehaven, Cumberland for the Boadle & Company of the same port. Weighing in at 370 tons, the full-bodied ship would have served in trade throughout the shores of continental Europe, and in the spice trade to Asia. The Boadle families of Wales and Scotland were often listed as captains and sailors, and for 50-years they were associated with Whitehaven shipping and many of Britain's barques.
