Saphir (ship)

Saphir was a French slave ship that operated out of La Rochelle in France.

Saphir painted in 1741

Slave voyages

Saphir completed two slave voyages. The first in 1737^[1] and the second in 1741.^[2] During the second voyage the wind did not blow leaving the crew and enslaved people stranded at sea without sufficient food and water. A revolt by the enslaved people erupted.^[3]

Painting

Saphir was painted by an unknown artist in 1741, the painting is located in the Sailors Chapel of Saint Louis Cathedral in La Rochelle, France. It is a protected national object owned by the government of France.^[3]

The painting is ex-voto and depicts the ship in control of the enslaved people who are offering gifts to Jesus, shown in the clouds and holding His Cross while raising a hand in blessing.^[3]

Documentary

A French documentary film about the ship was released in 2015. The film is called Sapphire of St. Louis and was directed by José Luis Guerín.^[4]