Semaphore at Portsmouth by Edward William Cooke. British soldiers in red coats stand by a cannon on a stone pier as waves crash against a wall near a tall semaphore tower, with multiple sailing ships in the background harbour.

Semaphore at Portsmouth

Edward William Cooke

1836 · Medium Not Listed

A spirited 19th-century maritime scene depicting the Portsmouth semaphore tower and active harbour life under a bright, cloud-filled sky.

$243

For the selected configuration

From $129

6 frame sizes

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Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A balanced work with lively energy with softened warm notes — adds structure to a more polished room.

Often works in
Living Room · Office · Study
Placement
Reads naturally above long furniture lines
Walls
Benefits from a distinct wall tone
Color notes
Soft white, Rich brown, Soft gray

About the piece

Painted in 1836 by Edward William Cooke, this work captures the coastal fortifications of Portsmouth with impressive technical detail. The composition balances the dynamic energy of crashing surf against the stoic presence of the semaphore tower and soldiers in scarlet uniforms, offering a window into British naval history during the height of the Age of Sail.