$735
French School, 19th Century Revolutionary War Battle Between the French Ally Naval Frigate Surveillante and the British Frigate Quebec Off Ushant, October 6, 1779. Indistinctly signed, possibly "Moultraic pinxt," l.r., a description of the scene is inscribed in French below. Gouache on paper, 13 1/8 x 19 1/4 in., in a period painted molded wood frame. Condition: Edge tears, toning, stains, corner losses. Note: On October 6, 1779, off Ushant (Ouessant), a French island at the southwestern end of the English Channel, the 32-gun French frigate Surveillante , under captain Couédic de Kergoaler, was taking part in naval operations in the American Revolutionary War, and met with the HMS Quebec , also with 32 guns, under Captain George Farmer. A fierce battle lasting three-and-a-half hours ensued with both ships suffering heavy casualties and damage; both vessels were completely dismasted. The battle ended when the Quebec, firing through her own sails which covered her gunports, took fire and exploded. The Surveillante , with leaking hull, suffered 30 casualties and 85 wounded. Her boat rescued whatever British crew had survived, and both British and French sailors then had to work together to keep her afloat. She returned to Brest, France, the next day. Tears: Three 3/4-1 in. lower edge.- through inscriptions, slightly into water, three on sides about 1/2 in.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2012-08-11
