Frederick Pansing (1844 - 1912) Germany. Watercolor. Mesaure 8 1/2"in H x 11 1/2"in W and 16"in H x 18"in W with frame. Fred Pansing, a painter of ships, was born in Germany in 1844. After five years as a sailor, where he spent his spare time drawing sailing vessels, he came to New York City in 1865, hoping to make a life as an artist. After some time working in the grocery belonging to his brother, Pansing found employment making detailed, colorful prints of ships for the American Lithographic Company. Sailing ships were very popular subject matter, in high demand during their day. When steam driven ships replaced the use of sail, the public desire for paintings and prints of such "romantic" vessels continued, with nostalgia for their passing an added element of interest, along with their intrinsic beauty. While his oil paintings are rare, Fred Pansing's talent and maritime experience made him a perfect fit for the print market. He died in 1912, having served, in the last years of his life, as manager of the Arts Club of New Jersey from 1910 to 1911.