ANTONIO DE SIMONE (ITALIAN, 1851-1907)

The steam yacht ‘White Ladye’ off Naples, circa 1892

Watercolour and gouache

Signed ‘De Simone’ (lower right) and inscribed with name (lower left)

15½ x 24½in. (39.5 x 62cm.)

Originally named Ladye Mabel, this 569 ton yacht was built by Ramage & Fergusson to a design by W.C. Storey for Lord Ashburton in 1891, but almost immediately sold to Lily Langtry, the actress and famed mistress of King Edward VII in 1892 whereon she assumed the mantle White Ladye. An attractive vessel, she sported three masts, was 204 feet in length, 27 feet in breadth and was powered by a 142 hp steam engine. From 1893 it was leased and in 1897 sold at auction to J.L. Johnston - the creator of 'Bovril', who retained it until his death aboard whilst off Cannes in 1900. Surviving the Great War (based in West Hartlepool), she was sold to French owners who converted her for use as a trawler (re-named La Champagne) until broken up in 1935.

Condition Report

Good overall condition

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.