Description
Large Marine Oil Painting – "SS Great Britain" by Salvatore Colacicco | Transatlantic 6-Masted Steamship Framed Nautical Masterpiece
Subject & Medium
Original historic marine oil painting on wood panel by acclaimed Italian-British marine artist Salvatore Colacicco, depicting the iconic 19th-century transatlantic steamship SS Great Britain. The vessel is shown in full profile in her original experimental six-masted rig with a single funnel, driving through the Atlantic with sails set and smoke trailing from her stack. Painted c.1970s, in the same decade the real ship was famously salvaged and brought home to Bristol.
Composition & Technique
This work shows Colacicco at his best, combining historical accuracy with real drama. The Atlantic swells in the foreground are rendered in deep navy, cobalt and stormy grey, giving a strong sense of movement and depth. White crests catch the light with textured strokes that suggest spray and breaking waves. Above, the sky shifts from heavy cloud to clearer blue, layered in cool greys, slate and soft ochres that create a moody, changing atmosphere.
The iron hull and intricate rigging are painted with meticulous precision, picking out lifeboats, deckhouses and tiny crew figures, while the looser treatment of sea and sky keeps the picture lively and atmospheric. Details such as the red ensign and colourful signal flags at the stern add sharp accents of colour. Overall, the painting combines technical draughtsmanship with expressive handling, so you feel both the power of the sea and the elegance of Brunel’s engineering.
Reserve: $4,932.00
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Condition
Used
Buyer's Premium
20%
Large Historic Oil Painting SS Great Britain Steamship by Salvatore Colacicco
Estimate $6,000-$7,000
Starting Price
$2,400
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Shipping & Pickup DetailsItem located in: United Kingdom Offers In-House Shipping
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Meet the Auction House
10372
4.5
53177
Marine, Naval & Military Art Auction
Feb 12, 2026 2:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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