Curated Set of 3 Antique 1861 Whaling & Maritime Art Prints – Framed & Matted Triptych

Beautiful antiquarian condition. The original 19th-century pages show a lovely, natural age-appropriate toning and light foxing that highlights their historical authenticity. They have been freshly matted and housed in clean, protective frames.

Description: Elevate your space with this unique, cohesive trio of original antique book plate illustrations. These pieces were carefully reclaimed from a scarce 1861 Boston printing of "Peter the Whaler; His Early Life, and Adventures in the Arctic Regions and Other Parts of the World" by famed maritime author William H. G. Kingston. This set acts as an instant, professionally styled gallery wall. It features the work of John William Orr (1815–1887), one of the most celebrated and prolific American wood engravers of the 19th century.

The Triptych Includes:
The 1861 Illustrated Title Page (Oak Frame): Features an elaborate border shaped like a nautical rope interwoven with harpoons, lances, and Arctic vignettes (polar bears and whale flukes). It clearly displays the historical publisher imprint: "Boston: Crosby, Nichols, Lee & Co." An original antique text snippet reading "PETER THE WHALER," is elegantly inset into the lower right corner of the matting.

The Double-Panel Inset (Black Frame): Features a split-mat presentation. The top panel showcases the formal typographical book header, while the bottom panel houses a crisp engraving of a classic 19th-century tall ship battling cresting ocean waves. Explicitly signed in the block by the artist ("J.W. ORR. Sc.").

The Whaling Expedition Action Scene (Black Frame): Captures a dramatic, high-stakes hunt in the polar seas with whaleboats maneuvering through choppy waters near towering Arctic icebergs. It masterfully depicts the raw danger of the trade—including a whaleboat being flipped into the air by a whale's tail flukes. Also proudly features the matching "J.W. ORR. Sc." artist signature block.

Dimensions (Outer Frame Measurements):

Title Page (Teak Frame): 11" Height x 9.5" Width

Whaling Action Scene (Horizontal Black Frame): 5.5" Height x 7.5" Width

Double-Panel Tall Ship (Vertical Black Frame): 6.5" Height x 8.5" Width

Designer Styling Tip: This set was intentionally styled with a mixture of warm, rounded natural oak and multi-tiered ribbed black wood frames to create an eclectic, curated look. Hang them linearly over a console table, stacked vertically in a narrow entryway, or arranged together as an instant focal point in a coastal living room, yacht club lounge, or home office.

Shipping: Will be packed with extreme care using professional-grade bubble wrap to ensure safe arrival.