J.M.W. Turner: Sketchbooks, Drawings and Watercolours

Turner has used this page to record a number of details and scenes. He evidently turned the sketchbook this way and that in order adequately to accommodate each distinct impression. With the page oriented horizontally, according to foliation, the most clear and elaborate drawing describes a ship of the line, as identified by Finberg.1 Situated at the left of the sheet, this sketch occupies a significant proportion of the available space and demonstrates detailed attention to the boat’s composition. In particular, the stern, with differentiated levels and the angled window panes of the gallery, is carefully described. Behind that, the trio of masts; foremast, mainmast, and mizzen, are lightly drawn in, before the sharp, angled point of the bowsprit completes a full, accurate picture of the ship’s anatomical structure. Towards top right, Turner seems to elaborate specific sections further. To the left is a drawing which appears to consider the top portion of the rudder, while at right is a foreshortened view of the hull.

With the page turned vertically, Turner records a distant view of Rochester across the top edge, as identified by Finberg.2 He observes the scene from a northerly perspective. Rochester Bridge, visible at the centre of this drawing, is examined more closely in the top left corner, where its arches are fully articulated. A similar prospect can be viewed in the Distant View of Rochester drawing of 1794 (Tate D00158; Turner Bequest XV B). Also composed with the page orientated in this way is an additional sketch at far right, beneath the Rochester prospect. This brief drawing seems to observe a scene on the Medway from the shore. A bulky vessel floats at centre and the opposite river bank is visible behind.

A final sketch, made with the page turned upside down according to the foliation of the book, describes another river panorama. The section of water at right is surrounded by distant indications of flat topography, which is elaborated at left as it swings round into the foreground where Turner stands on the bank. Three vessels occupy the expanse; one at centre and two towards far right.