Lot 98: David James (fl. 1872-1904) Breaking waves Oil on

David James (fl. 1872-1904) Breaking waves Oil on canvas Signed and dated '91 lower right 75.5 x 126.5 cm (29 3/4 x 49 3/4 in) David James was a prolific Marine painter.Yet surprisingly, little is known about the artist. He exhibited numerous times at the Royal Academy through the late 19th century. At his best he was a very skillful painter of the sea from the shore. Like Henry Moore, James was more interested in pure studies of the sea rather than topographical coastal views. He was especially good at painting waves. His favourite locations being Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The National Maritime Museum has a fine, large example of breakers.