Hauling in the lobster pot, Herbert E. Butler, 1903

Hauling in the lobster pot a painting showing two fishermen in a rowing boat in the act of hauling in a lobster pot. This was a very popular subject for artists at the end of the 19th century, when there was a focus on naturalistic portrayals of fishermen and work. At this stage the artist was living in polperro, cornwall where he would have plenty of opportunity to witness this activity. The rowing boat dominates the painting containing the two fishermen as they haul in the lobster pot. A second pot full of lobsters is already sitting in the bow of the boat. The cornish coast can be seen on the right and a seagull hovers just behind the boat surveying the scene and seeking for a chance to swoop. The rowing boat tips under the weight of the laden pot, pouring water out of the side. The painting stresses strong shapes and heaviness, with an emphasis on the labour involved in this activity. The painting is signed and dated 1903. Hauling in the lobster pot. Butler, herbert e. Post conservation treatment scan. Bhc3876. Object Type: painting. Genre: marine art. Date: 1903. Dimensions: Frame: 880 mm x 1182 mm x 110 mm;Painting: 610 mm x 915 mm. Medium: oil on canvas. Collection: Royal Museums Greenwich. Hauling in the lobster pot RMG L8462