‘Red-Sails on Open Water’
Signed W. H. Bates, dated 1943
A striking maritime oil depicting a red-sailed ketch cutting through choppy seas beneath a softly clouded sky. The distant outline of a naval vessel adds depth and contrast, balancing the warmth of the sails with the cool tones of the surrounding sea and sky. Bates captures both atmosphere and motion with crisp, confident brushwork typical of mid-20th-century marine painting.
Medium & Support: Oil on canvas.
Frame: Contemporary painted and gilt-edged frame; brighter tonality to the left-hand side and an area of detached painted veneer revealing a textured undercoat, which does not detract from the overall visual appeal.
Condition: Overall good decorative condition with a small hole to the upper right corner of the canvas and minor surface wear; colours remain bright and stable.
Signature: Signed W. H. Bates and dated 1943 lower right.
Dimensions:
Framed: approx. 90× 66 cm
Visible painting: approx. 75 × 39 cm
Notes: A well-balanced and atmospheric maritime study — lively in colour and composition, with fine period charm.