Charles J Lundgren (New York, Connecticut, 1911 - 1988) "Columbia" Signed lower right. Original oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood Golden Age of Sail Collection Columbia porcelain plate. Until the advent of packet ships like the Columbia, sailing vessels traveled between American and European ports with great irregularity, departing only when fully laden with cargo. Furthermore, scheduling was completely at the mercy of prevailing weather, for no ship dared set sail except under favorable winds. Built in 1821, the Columbia belonged to a special fleet known as the "Black Ball Line." These legendary ships ended many of the uncertainties involved in sea transportation. For the first time emphasis was placed on passengers as well as freight. Ships left port on specific days -- regardless of weather conditions -- and routes were predetermined. The Columbia was especially noted for sailing at her advertised time, wind or no wind. To meet her schedules, the Columbia had to make fast passages across the forbidding Atlantic. But like most packets of her class, she was not built for speed. However, what she lacked in swiftness she made up for in ability, for the Columbia was able and strong and could sail in rough waters that other ships shunned. Image Size: 22.75 x 25.5 in. Overall Size: 30 x 31.25 in. Framed behind plexi-glass. (B06781)