Accession Number
10943
Medium
Watercolor, over graphite, on ivory wove paper
Dimensions
35.4 × 53 cm (13 15/16 × 20 7/8 in.)
Classification
watercolor
Credit Line
Watson F. Blair Purchase Prize Fund
Background & Context
Background Story
Maurice Prendergast's Yacht Race (c. 1896-97) is a watercolor over graphite on ivory wove paper depicting a yacht race, probably in Boston Harbor. Prendergast was fascinated by scenes of leisure and recreation, and yacht racing offered opportunities for dynamic compositions of sails, water, and sky. The watercolor technique is fresh and spontaneous, capturing the movement of the boats and the sparkle of sunlight on water.
Cultural Impact
Prendergast's marine scenes are among his most dynamic works, capturing the energy and beauty of yachting and waterfront activities.
Why It Matters
This watercolor of a yacht race captures the excitement of the competition with Prendergast's fresh, spontaneous technique.
