Vintage Maritime Oil Painting of “Britannia of Åland” – Scandinavian Ship Portrait, Baltic Barque, Signed Hartvik After Lind Overview A striking vintage maritime oil painting depicting the three-masted barque Britannia of Åland under full sail, with the vessel and captain, August Ekblom, clearly inscribed. Painted in 1979 by B. Hartvik in Mariehamn, this piece is based on an 1869 London ship portrait by marine artist Andreas Gundersen Lind. It reflects the long-standing Scandinavian tradition of ship portraiture—where vessels were rendered with both technical precision and quiet pride. This is a large-scale, visually impactful work that blends historical with timeless nautical décor appeal. The Composition The ship is shown in clean side profile, sailing left to right across open water—a classic and highly collectible format in maritime art. The rigging, sails, and structure are carefully detailed, giving the painting a strong sense of realism and craftsmanship. The vessel is shown fully rigged and underway, conveying movement without drama—steady, purposeful, and composed. Subtle tonal work in the sails and sea adds depth while keeping the focus on the ship itself. Historical Interest This painting connects directly to the golden age of sail: Based on an original 1869 London marine painting Depicts a working Baltic trading vessel Reflects Scandinavian maritime heritage Shows a ship operating during a key period of European trade The inclusion of the Russian merchant flag further anchors the work in its 19th-century geopolitical context, when Finland was part of the Russian Empire. Artist Background After Andreas Gundersen Lind (1815–1885), a Scandinavian marine painter known for documenting ships from life while working in London. This version was painted by B. Hartvik in 1979, continuing a Nordic tradition of recreating historically significant ship portraits. Details Oil on canvas Signed and dated lower left Inscribed with ship name and captain Original 1970s gilt frame Dimensions Canvas: 80 cm W × 58.5 cm H Framed: 87 cm W × 65.5 cm H × 3.7 cm D A substantial size, ideal as a statement wall piece. Provenance Skånes Auktionsverk, Sweden (2018) Earlier recorded sale (2013) Private collection Bushwood Antiques Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD Why It Works This painting sits comfortably between fine art and interior design: Classic nautical subject with historical depth Neutral palette that works in both traditional and modern spaces Ideal for studies, libraries, coastal interiors, or gallery walls A conversation piece with maritime character