This is a small version, commissioned by Henry Bicknell from the larger painting of the same title, which was exhibited at the British Institute in 1846. Edward William Cooke was the son of the engraver George Cooke. Because of his detailed knowledge of ships and their rigging, Cooke was employed by the marine painter Clarkson Stanfield to make studies of details of ships for him. Under Stanfield's influence he took up painting in oil, and travelled in France, Scandinavia, Holland and Egypt. He exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1835-1879, the British Institute and at Suffolk Street. He was elected ARA in 1851 and RA in 1863.
Henry Bicknell, commissioned by him from the artist for 10 guineas Private collection, England
John Munday, Edward William Cooke RA FRS FLS FZS FGS 1811-1880 A Man of his Time, Antique Collectors' Club, 1996, page 331, catalogue of paintings in oils number 45/4