Brittany Finistere — Belle-Poule versus Arethusa 1872 Naval Engraving

Description

Brittany, off the Finistere coast — Belle Poule naval engraving depicting the action against the British frigate Arethusa on 17 June 1778. Wood engraving dated 1872.

Entitled “Combat de la Belle-Poule”, this nineteenth-century print presents the two sailing warships exchanging cannon fire at close range. Tall masts, extensive rigging and billowing sails dominate the vertical composition, while smoke partially obscures the vessels.

Fine engraved lines describe the ropes, hulls and movement of the sea. The contrast between illuminated sails and darker passages gives the scene depth and a dramatic atmosphere. The cloudy sky provides a spacious background to the closely grouped ships.

The subject recalls a celebrated episode in French naval history during the period of French involvement in the American War of Independence. The event represented took place in 1778; the print offered here dates from 1872.

The French title is printed below the image, with engraved signatures appearing in the lower corners of the composition.

Medium: wood engraving printed in black on paper.
Print date: 1872.
Historical event: naval action of 17 June 1778.
Sheet dimensions: 23.8 × 16.9 cm.
Image dimensions: 18.7 × 12.9 cm.

Condition: scattered small spots and foxing in the margins, particularly in the lower portion, with slight edge irregularities. Please examine the photograph for the condition of the paper and impression.

An attractive print for collectors of sailing ships, naval battles, maritime history and subjects connected with Brittany.