The Pool of London
Robert Cleveley (1747-1809)
Watercolour
Signed & dated
Dated : 1791
Image Dimensions : 4¾" x 7½" (12.1cm x 19.1cm)
Price : Sold
Robert Cleveley Biography
He had tried and failed to make a living in working in a dockyard as a caulker. However, mocked by other dockyard workers for wearing gloves whilst working, John did not enjoy his time there, giving it up and in 1770 volunteering for the navy as a clerk. His first service as a clerk was briefly under Captain William Locker (who acted as patron to artists probably known to John the Elder), then soon afterwards under Captain George Vandeput on his voyage in the Asia to the West Indies and North America, during which time Vandeput became a lifelong friend. The Asia returned in 1777, and from then to the end of his life Robert followed a double career as purser on board various ships stationed in the Home Fleet (though most probably exercising his functions through a deputy for some or all of the time) and as a marine painter. This meant he could exhibit his works as "Robert Cleveley of the Royal Navy".