[M] ERNEST WILLIAM LARA (BRITISH, 1870-1940) : H.M.S. 'Birmingham' Sinking 'U-15' in the North Sea, 1914

ERNEST WILLIAM LARA (BRITISH, 1870-1940)

H.M.S. 'Birmingham' Sinking 'U-15' in the North Sea, 1914

Signed 'E. Lara' (lower left)

Oil on canvas

15½ x 23½in. (39.5 x 59.5cm.)

This picture depicts the first sinking of a u-boat in World War One on the 9th August 1914 -- just five days after War had been declared. Birmingham sighted U-15 (Kapitanleutnant R. Pohle) lying on the surface in thick fog off Fair Isle. The engines were stopped and the sounds of hammering from within indicated some maintenance was in progress. Birmingham's Captain, Arthur Duff, ordered her to open fire but she missed, however, as the submarine prepared to depart, Birmingham altered course and rammed her opponent at full speed cutting her in two with the loss of all 23 officers and crew. Birmingham was a new four-funnelled light cruiser (launched in January 1914) which went on to serve at the Battles of Heligoland, Dogger Bank and Jutland.

Condition Report

L-shaped tear, 2 x 5in. to sky above principle vessel. Unlined.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.