HENLEY REGATTA: THE SILVER WHERRY PRIZE, 1845 realistically ...

Hammer

£3,000

HENLEY REGATTA: THE SILVER WHERRY PRIZE, 1845

realistically modelled as a sculling double with 9in. simulated planked and pinned hull with framing, seats, cross boards, adjustable footboards and row locks, signed on one seat 'Makepeace, Builder' and the hull hallmarked for David Currie. London, 1844, with four sculling blades, loosely mounted on shaped wooden display base -- 11 x 9in. (28 x 23cm.)

The Henley Regatta was founded in 1839 with the Silver Wherry Prize extant between 1845-49 before being replaced by a silver goblet in 1850. Three other examples (all by Makepeace) are held in the River & Rowing Museum, Henley, each for a differently designed vessel. This would therefore appear to be the first prize awarded which, in 1845 was won by G. Mann and F.M. Arnold of Caius College, Cambridge. In 1851 Prince Albert became the regatta's patron and thereafter the designation 'Royal' was used.