Chris Calle (American, B. 1961) "Olympic Centennial Games - Rowing" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media on Illustration Board painting. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the 32c Rowing Classic Collection Series stamp issued May 2, 1996. The ancient Greeks recognized rowing as a means of survival for oarsmen whose job it was to maneuver massive warships in the midst of battle. Centuries later, rowing contests became popular among the lower classes. The sport gained even more popularity when English public schools became interested in it. During the 19th century, competitive rowing garnered support in both England and the United States. In 1892, the international governing body for rowing was established by the national associations of the Adriatic, France, Italy, Belgium and Switzerland, and remains the sport's controlling international body. Rowing was scheduled into the program of the first modern Olympic Games at Athens in 1896. Unfortunately, the event was cancelled due to inclement weather and did not become an official sport until 1900. Image Size: 15.25 x 10.25 in. Overall Size: 23.25 x 14.25 in. Unframed. (B15519)