
Description
Regatta Rivals – Britannia & Vigilant at the 1894 Clyde Yacht Challenge
Original Marine Oil Painting by Stephen J. Renard | Royal Cutter Racing Scene
Subject & Medium
This striking oil painting by celebrated marine artist Stephen J. Renard captures a legendary moment from the 1894 Muir Memorial Challenge Cup during Clyde Fortnight—an elite regatta of the Victorian yachting era.
Title: “Britannia On The Clyde, 1894”
The painting showcases four iconic racing yachts—Britannia, Vigilant, Valkyrie II, and Satanita—as they battle for dominance across the windy waters of Scotland’s River Clyde.
Medium: Oil on card laid on board
Date: Circa 1990s
Signature: Hand-signed “Renard” (lower corner)
Title Inscribed Verso
Subject: Royal Yacht Britannia vs. America's Cup defender Vigilant, with Satanita and Valkyrie II in pursuit
Composition & Technique
Renard’s masterful composition channels the spirit of 19th-century yachting—grace, rivalry, and motion:
Britannia leads the formation with her sails drawn tight
Vigilant and Satanita follow closely, slicing through blue, wind-churned waters
Valkyrie II appears in the distance beneath a sky of shifting light
The Scottish Highlands provide a dramatic, misty backdrop
Brushwork:
Detailed rigging, hulls, and wave crests with precision strokes
Looser, expressive treatment of clouds and sky evokes energy and movement
Colour Palette:
Deep marine blues and whites define the sea’s tension
Warm sail tones—off-whites and soft creams—reflect sunlight
Cool greys and silvers paint the sky, contrasted by golden glints
Earthy greens outline the highland hills
This combination of romantic atmosphere and realism is signature Renard—technical yet emotive.
Frame
Set in the original decorative gilt frame, ornate and period-appropriate.
Framed Dimensions:
Height: 28 cm
Width: 38.5 cm
Depth: 5 cm
Frame Condition: Light wear, small scuffs, minor edge chips
Display-Ready: Hanging thread attached on reverse
?About the Artist – Stephen J. Renard (b. 1947)
A leading figure in contemporary British marine art, Stephen Renard is internationally renowned for capturing the grace of classic yacht racing.
Based in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire
Self-taught sailor and painter, deeply influenced by Steven Dews
Commissioned by British Royalty and elite yacht clubs
Works sold at auction for up to $55,947 USD
Known for meticulous accuracy, movement, and heritage-rich themes
Provenance
Registered with James Starkey Fine Art International
Labels verso
Sold via Shire Auction, UK
Represented by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Museum Exhibited
Condition Report
Painting: Excellent overall condition; light craquelure and foxing visible under close inspection
Frame: Original gilt frame shows expected antique wear
Display: Ready to hang with mounted wire
Why Buy This Piece?
Signed original by marine master Stephen J. Renard
Features legendary racing yachts: Britannia, Vigilant, Valkyrie II, Satanita
Museum-exhibited with full provenance
Highly detailed composition with dramatic movement and light
Original gilt frame included
Ideal for marine art collectors, offices, or yacht enthusiasts
Ready to hang and impress
?
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Reserve: $11,508.00
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Condition
Used
Buyer's Premium
20%
1894 Britannia & Vigilante With Valkyrie II & Satanita On Clyde Stephen J Renard
Estimate $14,000-$17,000
Starting Price
$5,500
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Marine, Naval & Military Art Auction
Feb 12, 2026 2:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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