Painting. [SS Great Britain] / J. Walter, c1847. Oil on canvas; 63x91cm in frame, 88x113x6.5cm. Signed bl. Portrait of the 3500-tons, iron screw steam ship Great Britain (1843), showing the vessel beached ashore at Dundrum Bay, Ireland, on the sand at low tide, December 1846. She refloated safely in August 1847 under the direction of Mr James Bremner and Captain C Claxton RN after fitment by IK Brunel of a breakwater of 8000 faggots each 3 feet diameter and 12 feet long, placed about the stern and exposed quarter of the vessel, loaded with stones, and backed by two rows of birch trees, about 60 feet long. This protective breakwater, combined with the strength of her iron construction, saved the vessel. She was towed to Liverpool for repairs. [see also pendant painting, 1865-36/1]