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The spermwhale brought to Greenland dock, 1762 (coloured etching)
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The spermwhale brought to Greenland dock, 1762 (coloured etching)
7342018 The spermwhale brought to Greenland dock, 1762 (coloured etching) by Unknown artist, (18th century); 16.7x23.8 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: unknown
During the 18th century the Greenland whale-fishery vessels were normally around 350 tons and were constructed in such a manner as to resist, so far as possible, the pressure of the ice. The crew normally numbered about fifty and the vessel carried six or seven whale-boats. The vessels left London at the beginning of April, and, after touching at the Shetlands, reached the whaling-grounds before the end of that month. In approaching a whale, silence was essential. The harpoon had to be delivered within a distance of a few yards. The moment the wounded whale disappeared, a flag was hoisted in the boat to give notice that assistance was required from the ship. It was vital that the whalers tended to the line, for if it became entangled with their boat they could be easily dragged under water by the whale.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38105450
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The coloured etching of "The spermwhale brought to Greenland dock, 1762" captures a moment in the history of the Greenland whale-fishery vessels during the 18th century. These massive ships, around 350 tons, were specially constructed to withstand the pressures of ice as they ventured into treacherous waters in search of whales.
With a crew of about fifty and carrying six or seven whale-boats, these vessels embarked on dangerous expeditions from London in April. The whalers had to approach their prey with utmost silence, waiting for the perfect moment to harpoon the massive creatures within a few yards distance.
Once wounded, the whale would disappear beneath the surface, prompting a signal for assistance from the ship. The whalers had to carefully tend to their lines to avoid being dragged under by their powerful quarry.
This print serves as a window into a time when man and nature clashed in epic battles on icy seas. It is a reminder of both the bravery and danger faced by those who sought out these majestic creatures for profit and adventure.
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