Humberto da Silva Fernandes(1937-2005)Clipper Ship Large Oil Painting on Canvas

Up for sale is a magnificent original oil painting on canvas by the famous Brazilian-American maritime artist Humberto da Silva Fernandes (1937–2005), depicting a dramatic whaling scene with a clipper ship under full sail. The composition captures the thrilling chase — a massive whale’s tail thrashes above the ocean surface as a small whaleboat of oarsmen gives pursuit, while a grand clipper ship dominates the horizon under a sky of billowing clouds. Distant ships and splashes from other whales complete the scene, creating a strong sense of narrative and motion.

Fernandes’ mastery of maritime subjects is evident here: the detailing of the ship’s rigging, the foamy texture of the sea, and the balance between calm horizon and intense action foreground all speak to his deep knowledge of nautical art.

Signed in the lower right corner "Silva Fernandes".
Presented in its original wood frame with linen liner. The frame shows minor wear and small scratches consistent with age. The painting has one small repainted area but is overall in very good condition.

Dimensions:

• Framed: 44" x 34"

• Canvas: 39" x 29"

📜 Artist Biography — Humberto da Silva Fernandes (1937–2005)

Humberto da Silva Fernandes was a Brazilian artist renowned for his highly detailed and realistic maritime paintings. Born March 20, 1937, in Niterói, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Fernandes showed an early fascination with the sea, ships, and coastal life — themes that would later define his artistic career.

He began painting professionally in the 1950s, initially working as a sign painter and muralist for public buildings. These early years honed his ability to work on a large scale and instilled in him a meticulous approach to composition and detail. By the 1960s, Fernandes had shifted his primary focus to fine art, dedicating himself almost entirely to maritime scenes — particularly historical vessels such as clippers, galleons, and tall ships.

Fernandes’ work is celebrated for its realism and technical precision. He combined a sailor’s knowledge of ship anatomy with an artist’s sensitivity to atmosphere and light, resulting in paintings that are both historically accurate and emotionally evocative. His subjects often included epic seascapes, naval battles, fishing boats at work, and serene harbor scenes, each imbued with a deep respect for the sea and those who sail it.

Throughout his career, Fernandes exhibited internationally, with shows in the United States, Europe, and Asia, gaining a following among maritime collectors, ship captains, and admirers of nautical history. His works are found in private collections, maritime museums, and galleries around the world.

He passed away on November 18, 2005, in Rio de Janeiro, leaving behind a significant legacy in maritime art. Today, Humberto da Silva Fernandes is remembered as one of the foremost painters of seafaring subjects in the late 20th century, with his works continuing to inspire a sense of adventure, nostalgia, and admiration for the ocean’s beauty and power.

Condition:
Very good vintage condition. One small repainted area noted; minor surface wear consistent with age. Frame has light scratches. Please view all photos as they are part of the description.

📦 Shipping: Securely packed and insured.
💬 Questions welcome before purchase.

Please note: Actual colors may vary slightly from the photos due to differences in lighting, camera settings, and screen displays. All items from our gallery are vintage or pre-owned and may show signs of age such as patina, surface marks, or wear. Please review all photographs carefully, as they are considered part of the description.