Caricature of a Sailor (One of a Set of Three) John Sell Cotman (1782-1842)

The watercolor drawing presents a figure seemingly caught in a moment of boisterous revelry aboard a ship. The central subject is a man dressed in nautical attire – a blue jacket over striped trousers, topped with a dark hat and a red neckerchief – who strikes a theatrical pose. He raises one arm high, pointing upwards with an exaggerated gesture, while the other hand clutches what appears to be a bundle of sausages or similar foodstuffs. His expression is animated, bordering on manic, suggesting a state of heightened excitement or perhaps intoxication.
The setting provides crucial context. The background reveals a ship’s deck, identifiable by the rigging and masts dominating the upper portion of the composition. Large barrels are visible in the foreground, adding to the sense of a working environment, albeit one temporarily disrupted by this individuals antics. The artist has employed a loose watercolor technique, with washes of color creating a slightly blurred effect that contributes to the overall feeling of movement and energy.
Beyond the literal depiction, several subtexts emerge. The exaggerated pose and facial expression suggest a caricature – a playful mockery of sailorly behavior or perhaps a commentary on the perceived excesses associated with life at sea. The sausages held by the man could be interpreted as symbols of indulgence or even a reward for some task completed. The pointing gesture is ambiguous; it might indicate triumph, defiance, or simply an attempt to draw attention.
The drawing’s composition reinforces this sense of playful disruption. The figure occupies nearly the entire frame, emphasizing his prominence and the absurdity of his actions. The lack of detail in the background further isolates him, focusing the viewers attention on his performance. Overall, the work conveys a lighthearted yet pointed observation of maritime life, likely intended to amuse through its exaggerated portrayal of a sailor’s character.