Clipper "Lightning" Entering Port Phillip Bay - Melbourne, 1855

The Lightning was built in Boston by the famous ship builder Donald McKay, to the order of James Baines for his Liverpool based Blackball Line in the winter of 1853-54 at a cost of 30,000 pounds sterling. The measurements were 2,096 tons, length 244 feet, and a beam of 44 feet.

This painting portrays Lightning on her second voyage, 1855.

Lightning left Liverpool with a full complement of passengers and general cargo for Melbourne. After a passage of 67 days she arrived off Port Phillip Heads in the afternoon of March 20, 1855. With a moderate wind from the East South East, the Pilot was picked up from the Pilot Schooner "Anonyma" and proceeded up the Bay. Lightning is seen sailing up the South Channel, Point Nepean can be seen on the left whilst Point Lonsdale is in the middle background.The Brig "Mercury" from Launceston heads up the West Channel for Geelong. The Pilot Cutter "Corsair" heads out to sea to relieve the schooner "Anonyma" on station outside the heads. The flag flying from her mainmast signifies Pilot on board.

The limited edition lithograph of this painting is an edition of 900. Printed on heavy weight quality archival paper and colourfast inks. These lithographs are strictly limited to 900 copies worldwide

Image size is 88 cm x 55 cm.

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