R. LIGHLEY Jnr.

Bird's Eye view of the Whangarei Regatta, December 21st 1887 1887
Watercolour
360 x 550 mm
Signed
Collection of the Edmiston Trust, New Zealand National Maritime Museum

This delightful naïve nineteenth century watercolour by an amateur artist depicts the regatta held in Whangarei in 1887.

The regatta was described in the local papers: "On Wednesday, December 21st, was held the best ever regatta ever witnessed in the harbour, both from the quality of the boats and closeness of the races. The steamship "Wellington" was, by the courtesy of the Northernsteamship Company, placed at the disposal of the committee to do duty as flagship, while the steam tenders Katikai and Planet brought passengers from Mangapai and Parua Bay respectively."

Northern Advocate and Whangarei County Gazette, December 24th 1887.

The painting still has its Victorian gothic kauri frame.

Little is known about the artist. We welcome any information you may have.