🎨 John Cromby Original – Claughton Ferry & Cargo Ship Alca on the Mersey, c.1970s

Maritime Art with Historic Significance

🌊 Subject & Medium

An evocative maritime scene by Liverpool marine artist John Cromby, this original oil on board captures a historical moment on the River Mersey, c.1970s.
Titled: “Rain Clouds of Liverpool – Yeoward Bros Ship Alca in Background, Ferry Boat Claughton in Foreground”

The painting focuses on the passenger ferry Claughton, shown in the foreground powering across the water.
In the background is the Yeoward Line’s passenger cargo liner Alca, easily identifiable by its single funnel marked with the iconic “Y” insignia.

The ship’s name is painted on the bow, with ensign flags hoisted and black smoke billowing from the funnel.
Notable Liverpool landmarks such as the Royal Liver Building, Our Lady and Saint Nicholas Church, and the Port of Liverpool Building with its green dome define the skyline.

🛳️ Ship Histories – Alca & Claughton

🟥 Alca (1927–1955)

• Built by Caledon Shipbuilding, Dundee for Yeoward Line Ltd

• Served as a passenger/cargo ship; requisitioned in WWII as a minesweeper

• Famous for her Canary Islands service

• Scrapped in 1955 at Preston

🟦 Claughton (1930–1962)

• Built by Cammell Laird, Birkenhead

• Served as the last operational Mersey steam ferry

• A staple of Liverpool river transport for over three decades

🎨 Composition & Technique

A fine example of traditional British marine painting, this work showcases:

• Perspective: A dynamic profile view that leads the eye from the Claughton ferry to the Alca and Liverpool skyline

• Brushwork: Confident, layered strokes with strong detail on water, rigging, and architecture

• Palette: Muted greys, greens, and steel blues reflecting the overcast weather, with golden light breaking through

• Sky: Dramatic, rain-laden clouds intensify the emotional realism

• Detail: Birds in flight add scale and movement to the scene

🖋️ Signed by John Cromby

Authentic marine oil painting titled "Rain Clouds of Liverpool", signed in the bottom corner by noted Liverpool artist John Cromby.

🧑🎨 Artist Biography – John Cromby

A 20th-century British marine artist based in Liverpool, John Cromby is known for his atmospheric and detailed depictions of docks, ships, and maritime life.
His work is treasured for its realism and historic relevance, particularly within the Liverpool maritime community. Cromby’s paintings are highly collectible among fans of nautical heritage and regional British art.

🖼️ Frame

• Type: Traditional gilt frame (original to the piece)

• Display: Ready to hang – secure rear hanging thread included

📏 Dimensions (Including Frame)

• Height: 62 cm

• Width: 90 cm

• Depth: 3 cm

📜 Provenance

• From a private British marine collection

• Sold via Shire Auction & Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

• Ship biography included verso

💖 Why You'll Love It

✅ Rich in Liverpool maritime history, with two iconic vessels
✅ Expertly painted in the dramatic British marine tradition
✅ Signed original by a listed regional artist
✅ Highly collectible for maritime, ferry, or Yeoward Line enthusiasts
✅ Presented in its original period frame – museum-worthy display
✅ A standout conversation piece for any room or gallery

🧾 Condition Report

• Painting: Good vintage condition; light foxing, scuffs, and surface wear in keeping with age

• Frame: Minor chips and wear consistent with vintage display

• Display-ready: No restoration needed – hang and enjoy

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🖼️ Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

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