Late 18th to Early 19th Century Portrait of a Sea Captain, by Charles Delin (1756-1818), circa 1810

Late 18th to Early 19th Century Portrait of a Sea Captain, by Charles Delin (Netherlands: 1756-1818), circa 1810, a fine period oil on canvas quarter-length portrait of Captain Mellens, an elegant gentleman in navy blue woolen double breasted sea coat, with high starched collar shirt and neck cloth, unsigned; retains an old collection label on the reverse identifying the artist and subject. The painting remains in fine condition, in its original carved and gilded frame.

Although identified by name, we could not find any additional information on the sitter. The name and clothing indicates that the captain was American or English. The artist Charles Delin was highly regarded in his day and specialized in sea captain portraits. Even though he was located in Holland, American captains sought him out to have their portraits painted. The Nantucket Historical Association has a great number of Delin portraits of identified Nantucket whaling captains in their collection. His style and technique are unmistakable.

Measures: 23-1/4 in H x 19-1/4 in W
Framed: 29-1/2 in H x 25-1/2 in W