Rigging encrusted with rime - Art print

Frank Hurley, Rigging encrusted with rime

Photographed on the Imperial Trans Antarctic Expedition, 1914-17. Leader: Ernest Shackleton. 

From the collection of the Scott Polar Research Institute.

Frank Hurley, an Australian photographer, and War photographer of both world wars, was the official photographer of the Imperial Trans Antarctic Expedition: Sir Ernest Shackleton's failed attempt to cross the continent of Antarctica on foot.

Before even beginning the trek, Shackleton's ship Endurance became trapped in the ice of the Weddell Sea for nearly a year. Over time, the pressures and movement of the ice eventually led to the destruction of the ship, and sinking, leaving the crew on the ice. Dragging supplies and the ship's remaining lifeboats, the crew made their slow way to Elephant Island, solid ground - but with little chance of rescue.

Shackleton then decided to make the perilous, 800 mile crossing from Elephant Island to South Georgia in one of the ships lifeboats, the James Caird. Crossing dangerously rough seas, and enduring cramped conditions in the modified boat, with six men on board. It is generally considered one of exploration's greatest feats of seamanship and daring.

Ultimately they were successful and returned with help to rescue the remaining crew from Elephant Island.

The wreck of Shackleton's ship the Endurance was recently rediscovered in March 2022.