δ CHARLES JOHNSON PAYNE “SNAFFLES” (BRITISH, 1884-1967)

H.M.S. ‘Encounter’

Signed and inscribed ‘To the owner from Snaffles ‘39’ and ‘H.M.S. Encounter'; in cartouches mounted lower left and right

Watercolour heightened with bodycolour

8½ x 14¾in. (21.5 x 37.5cm.)

An E-Class destroyer of 1,405 tons built by Hawthorn Leslie in 1932, Encounter was sunk in action with the Japanese cruisers H.J.M. Ashijaru and Myoko during the 2nd Battle of the Java Sea, 1st March 1942. Eight of the ship's company were killed with 149 adrift for twenty hours on rafts becoming prisoners-of-war - of these, a further 38 died in captivity. Her wreck was discovered in 60m of water in 2007 but when surveyed nine years later had been almost completely destroyed by illegal salvage operations.

Condition Report

Good overall condition

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.