Lot Essay
Openend up for trade after the end of the so-called 'Opium War' of 1840-42, Foochow had become, by the 1860's, the most popular loading port for the fast ships involved in the China Tea Trade. Well-situated in the centre of the best growing area for the black teas so popular in England, the large anchorage at Foochow sheltered the most famous tea clippers on the China run as, each year, they loaded their cargoes prior to embaking on the memorable races home. Steam tugs were on hand to tow the clippers over the bar and out into the estuary as soon as loading was completed and, at the height of every season, the anchorage at Foochow was as busy as any in the Far East.
Of all the China clippers, Black Prince, Fiery Cross and Ariel were amongst the most notable: Black Prince and Fiery Cross were both designed by the William Rennie and launched in 1860 and 1863 respectively whilst the legendary Ariel came from Robert Steele's yard at Greenock in 1865. All three enjoyed careers of great excitement although Ariel achieved everlasting fame after her astonishing 99-day run home to win the greatest Tea Race of them all in 1866.
Of all the China clippers, Black Prince, Fiery Cross and Ariel were amongst the most notable: Black Prince and Fiery Cross were both designed by the William Rennie and launched in 1860 and 1863 respectively whilst the legendary Ariel came from Robert Steele's yard at Greenock in 1865. All three enjoyed careers of great excitement although Ariel achieved everlasting fame after her astonishing 99-day run home to win the greatest Tea Race of them all in 1866.