A Reindeer Class Yawl Lifeboat by Norman Wilkinson

A watercolour and gouache painting of a Reindeer Class Yawl used for rescue off Dover.

A Yawl is a small sailboat with a fore and aft mast used by both fishermen, for general work on the water and racing. The label to the back of the board states 'Yawl. Reindeer. Class., Rescue Work Dover. Area, 1850, Norman Wilkinson'. Written in pencil to the top of the bales is 'Card 4'. Written directly to the board is 'Dover. 19. 20'. The painting is signed to the front 'Norman Wilkinson, Dover 20.'

The Dover Humane Society was formed in 1837 to rescue those in distress at sea. Their 37 foot, self-righting boat was locally built by Messr. Elvin. Aside from sail, she was powered by 12 volunteer oarsmen who were mostly fishermen. In 1855, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution was invited to run the station.

The unnamed blue Yawl is flying a red ensign and a blue flag marked DH, which may refer to Dover Humane Society. She's shown with a crew of 12 and appears to be returning to harbour, with the port quickly painted to the background on the right. 'Card 4' to the label suggests the illustration may have been made for a cigarette card. Dated 1920.