[M] THE ILL-FATED 'ROYAL GEORGE', FOUNDERED AT SPITHEAD IN 1780

THE ILL-FATED ROYAL GEORGE, FOUNDERED AT SPITHEAD IN 1780

pen, ink and watercolour, inscribed on reverse The Royal George of 100 Guns, as taken with a Camera Obscura when a Guard Ship in Hamoaze 1780, was afterwards overset whilst being careen'd (sic) for the purpose of repairing the Watering Pipe in the 9th August 1782. The Brave Admiral Kempenfelt with more that 1000 persons, seamen and others met a Watery Grave. After remaining under water nearly 60 years tho' several ineffectual attempts had been made to raise her, Colonel Parsley RE proposed to blow her up with Gunpowder & the first large cylinder charged with 2,400lbs. was exploded on the 3rd August 1839 fully realising the opinion of the Scientific Projector. This frame is made from the recovered wood of the ship. "Toll for the brave' brave Kempenfelt is gone. His last sea fight is o'er his work of glory done", this final quotation from William Cowper's epic poem "On the loss of the Royal George," written in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, in an original frame made of wood recovered from the Royal George -- 7¼ x 9in. (18.5 x 23cm.)

For the only other recorded example (although half the size of the one offered here) seen in commerce in more than fifty years, see Bonhams & Brooks Marine Sale, 11th January 2001, lot 70; For a detailed account of the disastrous sinking of the Royal George in 1782, see notes to the model of the vessel sold in these rooms, 27th April 2021, lot 175.

Condition Report

Light time-staining and scattered spotting commensurate with age, colours remain strong.

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.