[M] A LAUNCHING MALLETT FOR H.M.S. CANOPUS, 1897

THE LAUNCHING MALLETT FOR H.M.S. CANOPUS, 13 OCT. 1897

the terminals tightly carved with patriotic foliage of roses, thistles etc., inscribed on centre as per title, turned handle with suspension loop -- 11¼in.(28.5cm)

The nameship of her Class, Canopus was a pre-dreadnought battleship of some 14,300 tons built by Portsmouth DY. The first battleship to be fitted with watertube boilers, she was also fitted with huge 12in. guns. Although obsolete by the Great War, she was sent on patrol and was supposed to join Admiral Craddock's ill-fated squadron but didn't arrive before it was sunk by von Spee. Re-assigned to the avenging squadron of Sir Doveton Sturdee, he grounded her as a harbour defence at Port Stanley where, in anticipation of a competitive gunnery drill, she secretly loaded her 12in. guns. When von Spee surprised the British Squadron in the midst of coaling, she opened fire, scored the first hit and made the Germans turn and flee pursued by the British who sank them in the Battle of the Falkland Islands. Canopus went on to serve at Gallipoli, but her age was evident and she was removed from active service in 1916 and broken in 1920.

Condition Report

head carefully reattached.

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.