Fishing Smacks (Royal Sea with a Buoy and Shipping)

Fishing Smacks at the Victoria Art Gallery depicts the small working vessels that formed the backbone of the British fishing industry. Stanfield’s paintings of everyday working craft, rather than grand naval vessels, reflect his democratic interest in maritime life at all levels, from warships to fishing boats. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays dramatic atmospheric effects, precise marine detail derived from his seafaring experience, theatrical compositions informed by years as a scene painter at Drury Lane.

The fishing smacks are rendered with the same precision Stanfield brought to warships, demonstrating his knowledge of these simple but seaworthy craft. Wind and wave effects are captured with convincing naturalism.