GEORGE MEARS (BRITISH, 1865-1910)
The London Brighton & South Coast Railway Co. channel ferry 'Prince Arthur'
Signed and dated 'G. Mears '96' (lower right)
Oil on canvas
11½ x 23in. (29 x 58.5cm.)

Built by Denny Bros. of Dumbarton for the London Brighton and South Coast Railway Co., she was ordered in October 1895 and delivered in July 1896 for a total cost of £20,296. A handsome vessel with raked twin pole masts, she registered 705 tons and her two triple expansion engines gave her a very satisfactory service speed just shy of 16 knots. She was transferred to the South Eastern and Chatham Railway in 1901, renamed Deal, and served a further twenty-five years before being sold to Youngs of Sunderland for breaking in 1926.

Condition Report
Fine craquelure overall within stretcher margins; rubbed along left margin; appears in original condition and not re-lined, unusually for an oil it is glazed and has not been removed from the frame which is probably original.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.