In 1851, 'America' crossed the Atlantic to take part in a yacht race around the Isle of Wight for 'all comers'. Against the cream of British yachts, of all sizes, the American yacht which was of a more advance design, and won the race by a very large margin to collect the 100 guineas Cup. This trophy is since known as the 'America's Cup'. A straight forward ship portrait, but the small craft in the foreground, was to emphasize the striking image of this famous schooner yacht.