6th Nov, 2018 11:00

Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Speedy')

 
  Lot 57
 

57

GIROLAMO GIANNI (1837-1895) - H.M.S. 'Condor' after the Bombardment of Alexandria, 1882

GIROLAMO GIANNI (ITALIAN, 1837-1895)

H.M.S. 'Condor' after the Bombardment of Alexandria, 1882

Oil on canvas

Signed and dated 'G. Gianni 1882' (lower right)

12½ x 20¼in. (32 x 51.5cm.)

A composite gun-vessel designed by Nathaniel Barnaby, Condor was the name-ship of a class of four ordered in 1875. Launched at the end of 1876, they were typical transitional sail/steam ships which were barque-rigged but under steam could race along at an impressive 11½ knots and were armed with one 7in. and two 64pdr. muzzle loading guns which could strike hard and accurate shots when required. Condor joined the Mediterranean Fleet in 1877 and remained there for twelve years, however she achieved immortality in July 1882 at the Bombardment of Alexandria. A fleet of fifteen ironclads had been sent there to protect British property after rioting. When a local militia persisted in strengthening defences, the Commander, Admiral Seymour, commenced a bombardment. The Temeraire was sent to deal with the Mex Forts but grounded and Condor - captained by a young Lord Charles Beresford - assisted her re-floating and then took on the fort at Marabout at a range of only 1,200 yards, but did so with such a spectacular rate of fire that the fort was soon silenced and the rest of the fleet could concentrate on the main attack. Afterwards Seymour famously signalled "Well Done Condor" to the Fleet, which not only secured the ship's reputation, but Beresford's who rose to the rank of Admiral.

Sold for £1,984
Estimated at £1,500 - £2,500

(inc. buyer's premium of 24%)


Condition Report

Original condition throughout, mint condition. Original frame painted with liquid cold.

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.

 

GIROLAMO GIANNI (ITALIAN, 1837-1895)

H.M.S. 'Condor' after the Bombardment of Alexandria, 1882

Oil on canvas

Signed and dated 'G. Gianni 1882' (lower right)

12½ x 20¼in. (32 x 51.5cm.)

A composite gun-vessel designed by Nathaniel Barnaby, Condor was the name-ship of a class of four ordered in 1875. Launched at the end of 1876, they were typical transitional sail/steam ships which were barque-rigged but under steam could race along at an impressive 11½ knots and were armed with one 7in. and two 64pdr. muzzle loading guns which could strike hard and accurate shots when required. Condor joined the Mediterranean Fleet in 1877 and remained there for twelve years, however she achieved immortality in July 1882 at the Bombardment of Alexandria. A fleet of fifteen ironclads had been sent there to protect British property after rioting. When a local militia persisted in strengthening defences, the Commander, Admiral Seymour, commenced a bombardment. The Temeraire was sent to deal with the Mex Forts but grounded and Condor - captained by a young Lord Charles Beresford - assisted her re-floating and then took on the fort at Marabout at a range of only 1,200 yards, but did so with such a spectacular rate of fire that the fort was soon silenced and the rest of the fleet could concentrate on the main attack. Afterwards Seymour famously signalled "Well Done Condor" to the Fleet, which not only secured the ship's reputation, but Beresford's who rose to the rank of Admiral.

Auction: Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Speedy'), 6th Nov, 2018

Page turning catalogue here

Downloadable bid form here

Main View and Sale Venue:
25 Blythe Road
London, W14 0PD

Large Object View and Post-Sale Collection:
6 Imperial Studios
3-11 Imperial Road
London, SW6 2AG

 

Press enquiries: Suzanne Trisk press@charlesmillerltd.com

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Saturday, 3rd November
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Sunday, 4th November
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