Three 20th century paintings of the first America's Cup sailing regatta of 1851, the oldest continuous sporting trophy in history, are highlights at The Marine Sale at Bonhams on 24th March 2010.

The three pictures offered for sale depict –

America and her rivals on the start line, oil on canvas, 30 x 48 inches. Estimate: £25,000 - 35,000.

Arrow and Alarm, oil on canvas, 20 x 40 inches. Estimate: £15,000 - 20,000.
In 1851, both the Arrow, now under the ownership of Mr. Thomas Chamberlayne, and the Alarm were amongst the fourteen yachts contesting the Hundred Guineas Cup with the yacht America. At the Nab light vessel, marking the eastern end of the course, Arrow was in the lead when America, it was said, following a second set of rules, cut inside, and although chased by the rest of the fleet, put herself into such a commanding position, that the Arrow, attempting to pass her again off Ventnor, ran aground. The Alarm turned to rescue her, but in doing so was also left behind and retired.

America romping home to victory, oil on canvas, 30 x 48 inches. Estimate: £25,000 - 35,000.

Widely regarded as the most famous yacht race ever, it was convincingly won by the New York Yacht Club's schooner America, so convincingly in fact that Queen Victoria's question "Who came second?" was famously answered by "Ah, your Majesty, there is no second."

Alistair Laird, Head of Marine Pictures, says "These three pictures by Tim Thompson are the most impressive depictions of the inaugural America's Cup race I have ever handled."

Enquiries – Alistair Laird on 0207 468 8211 or alistair.laird@bonhams.com

NOTES FOR EDITORS

Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world's oldest and largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. The present company was formed by the merger in November 2001 of Bonhams & Brooks and Phillips Son and Neale UK. In August 2002, the company acquired Butterfields, the principal firm of auctioneers on the West Coast of America. Today, Bonhams offers more sales than any of its rivals, through two major salerooms in London: New Bond Street, and Knightsbridge, and a further seven throughout the UK. Sales are also held in San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York and Boston in the USA; and Switzerland, France, Monaco, Australia, Hong Kong and Dubai. Bonhams has a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 25 countries offering sales advice and valuation services in 50 specialist areas. For a full listing of upcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments, go to www.bonhams.com. (January 2009)