Montague Dawson, F.R.S.A., R.S.M.A. (British, 1895-1973)

The International six meter class yachts were developed in 1908 under the First International Rule, and quickly gained popularity around the world as an international one design racing yacht. The International Rule was modified in 1920, with the yacht designers and sailors embracing the modifications which made the boats livelier in heavy air conditions. Six meter class yachts were the smallest yachts built to the International Rule and soon became among the sleekest and most technologically advanced racing yachts of the pre-war era.
The present work is similar in composition to a color collotype produced by Frost & Reed Ltd. with the title Winning Tack. Dawson perfectly captures the motion of The Sapphire as it tacks round the buoy, heeled well over and ahead of the competition.