FRED J. GIRLING (BRITISH, 20TH CENTURY)
H.M.S. 'Martin'
Watercolour heightened with white
Signed 'FRED JAY GIRLING' (lower right), and inscribed 'H.M.S. "Martin"' (lower left)
7½ x 8½in. (19 x 21.5cm)

An M Class destroyer, H.M.S. Martin had a short, but busy career. Built by Vickers-Armstrong at Newcastle upon Tyne and launched on 12 December 1940, Martin was part of the escort for the Home Fleet during Convoy PQ 17, protecting the Home Fleet on their voyage from Scapa Flow to Bear Island and back. She was also an escort to Force 'H' in Operation 'Torch' in which she guarded against action by the Italian Fleet. It was during the landings at Algiers in Operation 'Torch' that Martin was torpedoed by a German submarine and sunk, never making it to Oran with the rest of the operation.

Condition Report
Apart from a little browning to the extremities of the margins, painting appears to be in fine 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.