Merrill Coffin’s The Lois C is a tender tribute, not only to the maritime traditions he often celebrated, but also to his wife, for whom the piece is named. This painting captures a moment of stillness on the water, where work and devotion meet in a scene of quiet beauty.
At the heart of the composition rests The Lois C, a white lobster boat tied securely to a mooring. On deck, three lobster traps are neatly stacked, subtle reminders of the labor and livelihood bound to the vessel. A red flag hangs from a pole, perfectly still against the calm air, its stillness echoing the tranquility of the sea. Nearby, a dinghy drifts, tethered both to the mooring and the larger boat, a humble companion to the vessel.
A seagull perches atop the mooring, claiming its lookout with casual grace, while three more fly gently in the distance. These small details of bird and sky enliven the scene, connecting it to the rhythms of nature. The water itself is glass-like, holding the reflection of the boat as it merges seamlessly with the horizon. In Coffin’s rendering, the sea and sky melt together in a haze of soft greys, blurring boundaries and inviting the viewer into a contemplative space.
What distinguishes The Lois C is its harmony—between land and sea, vessel and bird, labor and love. While the painting honors the tools and traditions of coastal life, its naming reveals a personal layer: a gesture of devotion from the artist to his wife. Through careful brushwork and muted palette, Coffin transforms a quiet harbor scene into a deeply human story of memory, identity, and enduring affection.
The Lois C stands as both a maritime portrait and a love letter, blending artistry with legacy.
The private collection of Laurie Coffin.
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