Lot 739: General Printed Books

WELCH (ROBERT JOHN, photographer) View or the rudder and propeller shafts of Titanic, signed 'H1557 R.W.' in the image, Harland and Wolff stamp on verso and inscribed' Tail Shape 1910 TITANIC', 200x252mm., [1910]

Titanic was laid down in March 1909, alongside Olympic which was by then nine months from launch. This image of the propeller shaft and rudder is frequently reproduced.

Robert John Welch (1859-1936) was a commerical photographer with a wide-ranging practice. He was the official photographer to Harland and Wolff for many years, recording all their new ships. This and the following two lots come from his personal collection.