Willy Stower (22 May 1864 – 31 May 1931) was a German artist, illustrator and author during the Imperial Period, 1871-1918. He is best known for nautical paintings and lithographs*. Many of his works depict historical maritime events such as the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912.

Willy Stöwer, the son of a sea captain, was born in Wolgast, Germany on the Baltic coast. He originally trained as a metalworker and worked as a technician in the engineering offices of various German shipyards. He soon received commissions as a draftsman, illustrator and painter. His talent was recognized early and his painting technique was self-taught. In 1892 he married Henrietta Dettmann from a wealthy family, and this allowed him to devote hims...