Sunderland Lustre Plaque,
Mate, Sound the Pump, Morning Noon & Night,
Circa 1840-50

This lustre wall plaque of rectangular section has wording which is rarely found. According to J. Welles Henderson, the author of Jack Tar, The wording on the plaque was of critical importance to the survivability of the ship and those on board. It was imperative to know the depth of water in the well of the ship to determine if pumping was necessary. Here was a token of life at sea that could be an everyday reminder at home of the perils of the sea.

Reference: Marine Art & Antiques: Jack Tar, A Sailor's Life 1750-1910, J. Welles Henderson, page 235 for illustration of similar rare plaque.