Lot Essay
Irex and Galatea were two notable yachts of the 1880's owned, respectively, by Mr. John Jameson and Lieutenant William Henn, R.N. Whilst Irex was fast and very successful, winning eight firsts in her maiden season in 1884 and racing competitively until 1902, Galatea achieved more fame when her owner challenged for the America's Cup in 1886. Although unsuccessful both for the "auld mug" as well as in most competitions at home, Galatea was nevertheless well-known in yachting circles, not only for the particular lavishness of her living quarters but also for the amusement caused by her owner's pet monkey "Peggy" which was trained to hoist and lower sail as well as entertain rival crews.