Alma Claude Burlton Cull (1880-1931). Watercolour signed and dated 10; inscribed verso " HMS DIDO 1900" when she was commanded by Captain Henry Sandeman RN..
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Cull makes it clear that we are in sunny climes and the Protected Cruiser HMS DIDO is whispering her way through the clear, warm water, accompanied by what would appear to be two “bateels”, the traditional sailing craft of the Persian Gulf region suggesting that this is indeed where we are. DIDO, one of nine Eclipse Class Protected Cruisers, was completed in 1896 together with fifty one broadly similar 2nd class cruisers. DIDO of some 5.600 tons and with a length of 364 feet, mounted eleven 6 inch guns, over a dozen smaller calibre weapons and three 18 inch torpedo tubes: triple expansion engines and twin screws gave the class a top speed of around 19 knots.
This watercolour is beautifully executed with its clear, translucent colours and a wealth of detail on the cruiser which only really becomes apparent upon close inspection. Truly Cull has few equals when it comes to portraying this type of scene!
Provenance: from the estate of an avid AB Cull admirer who lived in Edinburgh, Scotland.