Sailor Smoking a Pipe

Arthur David McCormick (1860–1943) was a notable British illustrator and painter, renowned for his landscapes, historical scenes, naval subjects, and genre scenes. Born in Coleraine, County Londonderry, he pursued his education at the Royal College of Art in London from 1883 to 1886.

McCormick’s career was marked by his contributions to various illustrated magazines, including the English Illustrated Magazine and the Illustrated London News. He participated in significant expeditions, such as Sir Martin Conway’s journey to the Karakoram Himalayas in 1892 and Clinton T. Dent’s expedition to the Caucasus Mountains in 1895. His illustrations from these travels were featured in Conway’s book “Climbing and Exploration in the Karakoram-Himalayas” (1894) and his own publication “An Artist in the Himalayas” (1895).

Throughout his career, McCormick illustrated nearly thirty books, focusing on travel and adventure themes. Some of his notable works include illustrations for Edgar Allan Poe’s “Tales of Mystery and Imagination” (1905) and Henry Newbolt’s “Drake’s Drum and Other Songs of the Sea” (1914). He was also a regular exhibitor at the Royal Academy from 1889 to 1938.

Navy Cut Sailor Work

In 1927, Arthur David McCormick was commissioned by John Player & Sons to create an image for their Navy Cut cigarette brand. McCormick designed the famous “sailor’s head” logo, which became one of the most recognisable trademarks in the tobacco industry. The image depicted a sailor in a traditional naval uniform, designed to evoke a sense of reliability, strength, and adventure, aligning with the brand’s identity.

The “sailor’s head” logo also became a cultural symbol, resonating with the public, particularly during the interwar period, when naval imagery was associated with national pride and maritime heritage. McCormick’s artwork contributed significantly to the brand’s success, helping Navy Cut cigarettes become a household name.

In later years, McCormick continued to paint and exhibit his works until his death in 1943.

Museums
The Royal Academy of Arts, London
The Imperial War Museums, UK
The National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth
The Box, Plymouth
Newport Museum and Art Gallery, Wales
Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool
Coleraine Museum, Northern Ireland
Williamson Art Gallery & Museum, Birkenhead