Boats Becalmed

Arthur Quartley’s view of several small fishing boats was painted in 1879. It was probably purchased by Julia and Frederick Billings at the time of the artist’s death in New York City in May 1886.

Quartley was the son of an English engraver and landscape painter. He was brought to America when young, and apprenticed to a decorating firm in Baltimore. In 1875 he opened a studio in New York City, and became a member of the National Academy in 1886. The artist was best known for his marine and landscape views, many painted off the coast of New Hampshire.