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Another exceptional aquatint print from James Jenkins The Naval Achievements of Great Britain. These original prints are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper and coloured by hand. All the plates are identified at the bottom left Painted by T. Whitcombe and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced the aquatint engravings.
The Battle of Groix was a large naval engagement which took place near the island of Groix off the Biscay coast of Brittany on 23 June 1795 (5 messidor an III) during the French Revolutionary Wars. The battle was fought between elements of the British Channel Fleet and the French Atlantic Fleet, which were cruising in the region on separate missions. The British fleet, commanded by Admiral Lord Bridport, was covering an invasion convoy carrying a French Royalist army to invade Quiberon, while the French under Vice-admiral Villaret de Joyeuse had sailed a week earlier to rescue a French convoy from attack by a British squadron.
The Battle of Groix was a large naval engagement which took place near the island of Groix off the Biscay coast of Brittany on 23 June 1795 (5 messidor an III) during the French Revolutionary Wars. The battle was fought between elements of the British Channel Fleet and the French Atlantic Fleet, which were cruising in the region on separate missions. The British fleet, commanded by Admiral Lord Bridport, was covering an invasion convoy carrying a French Royalist army to invade Quiberon, while the French under Vice-admiral Villaret de Joyeuse had sailed a week earlier to rescue a French convoy from attack by a British squadron.
Above: Lord Bridport's Action Off Port L'Orient, June 23rd 1795. Published May 1st 1816 at 48 Strand for J. Jenkins Naval Achievements. From The Naval achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1793 to 1817 by J. Jenkins.
Excerpt from the written account as published:
LORD BRIDPORT's ACTION OFF L'ORIENT, JUNE 23, 1795.
ON the 11th June, 1795, the signal was made for the fleet under Lord Bridport, then lying at Spithead, to prepare for sailing; and on the following day they unmoored, and proceeded on their destination. On the 22d, at four o'clock in the morning, being in latitude 47° 4' N. and longitude 4° 16' W. Belle Isle bearing E. by N. 14 leagues, the frigates made the sigınal for a strange fleet, which was soon discovered to be French. They were then right ahead, but the wind shifting, brought them on the weather bow of the British fleet. At six o'clock the admiral made a signal for four of the best sailing ships to chase, and
his lordship followed with the whole fleet: the enemy at this time crowded all sail, endeavouring to escape. The chase continued with very little wind till three o'clock the next morning, when a breeze springing up, brought them within sight of the Isle de Groais, which was discovered from the lee bow. About six o'clock the headmost ships were within gun-shot of the enemy, followed closely by the Queen Charlotte, Irresistible, Royal George, and London.
The annexed view represents that time of the action when the Royal George (to the right) having obliged the Tigre (in the centre) to haul down her colours, is ranging alongside the next in succession; immediately after which, bringing himself within reach of the enemy's batteries, and L'Alexandre and Le Formidable (to the left) having surrendered, the admiral threw out the signal to leave off chase. . . .
How to Identify the Prints:
The original prints from "The Naval Achievements of Great Britain. From the Year 1793 to 1817" are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper. All the plates identify at bottom left Painted by T. Whitcombe and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced the aquatint engravings. Some plates were engraved by Jeakes and Bailey after Whitcombe. Each plate is accompanied by text pages describing the action, often with lists of ships captured or sunk, and excerpts from contemporary bulletins, dispatches, letters, and speeches. The first edition appeared in 1817. Early issues have watermarks of J. Whatman with the undated watermark IIS&S on some plates. The vignette title page was uncoloured in the first issue. The approx engraved image area of the plates are 7" x 10.25" (175mm x 260mm). Engraved plate mark area is approx 8.5 x 11.75 (215mm x 300mm). The folio sheet size is approx 11.5" x 14" (290mm x 355mm).
You can see more prints from Jenkins The Naval Achievements of Great Britain, From the Year 1793 to 1817 HERE. If you're interested in a specific print and you cannot see it on my website please feel free to message me
Excerpt from the written account as published:
LORD BRIDPORT's ACTION OFF L'ORIENT, JUNE 23, 1795.
ON the 11th June, 1795, the signal was made for the fleet under Lord Bridport, then lying at Spithead, to prepare for sailing; and on the following day they unmoored, and proceeded on their destination. On the 22d, at four o'clock in the morning, being in latitude 47° 4' N. and longitude 4° 16' W. Belle Isle bearing E. by N. 14 leagues, the frigates made the sigınal for a strange fleet, which was soon discovered to be French. They were then right ahead, but the wind shifting, brought them on the weather bow of the British fleet. At six o'clock the admiral made a signal for four of the best sailing ships to chase, and
his lordship followed with the whole fleet: the enemy at this time crowded all sail, endeavouring to escape. The chase continued with very little wind till three o'clock the next morning, when a breeze springing up, brought them within sight of the Isle de Groais, which was discovered from the lee bow. About six o'clock the headmost ships were within gun-shot of the enemy, followed closely by the Queen Charlotte, Irresistible, Royal George, and London.
The annexed view represents that time of the action when the Royal George (to the right) having obliged the Tigre (in the centre) to haul down her colours, is ranging alongside the next in succession; immediately after which, bringing himself within reach of the enemy's batteries, and L'Alexandre and Le Formidable (to the left) having surrendered, the admiral threw out the signal to leave off chase. . . .
How to Identify the Prints:
The original prints from "The Naval Achievements of Great Britain. From the Year 1793 to 1817" are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper. All the plates identify at bottom left Painted by T. Whitcombe and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced the aquatint engravings. Some plates were engraved by Jeakes and Bailey after Whitcombe. Each plate is accompanied by text pages describing the action, often with lists of ships captured or sunk, and excerpts from contemporary bulletins, dispatches, letters, and speeches. The first edition appeared in 1817. Early issues have watermarks of J. Whatman with the undated watermark IIS&S on some plates. The vignette title page was uncoloured in the first issue. The approx engraved image area of the plates are 7" x 10.25" (175mm x 260mm). Engraved plate mark area is approx 8.5 x 11.75 (215mm x 300mm). The folio sheet size is approx 11.5" x 14" (290mm x 355mm).
You can see more prints from Jenkins The Naval Achievements of Great Britain, From the Year 1793 to 1817 HERE. If you're interested in a specific print and you cannot see it on my website please feel free to message me
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Another book recommendation for the novice antique map collector. London is a place close to my heart having family roots there, also lived, worked and played in and around London for most of my life. Maps and plans of London illustrate the stages in its growth, and the causes and consequences of this growth from the sixteenth century onwards. But would you know what to buy when it comes to old maps of London?
Students and amateurs of cartography and of London's history and topography have long been handicapped by the total lack of any comprehensive descriptive key to the wealth of printed maps that have survived from the sixteenth century onwards. Here, for the first is a scholarly catalogue of maps of London, listed in chronological order of their first appearance.
Students and amateurs of cartography and of London's history and topography have long been handicapped by the total lack of any comprehensive descriptive key to the wealth of printed maps that have survived from the sixteenth century onwards. Here, for the first is a scholarly catalogue of maps of London, listed in chronological order of their first appearance.
Above: Printed Maps of London circa 1553-1850. Darlington, Ida & James Howgego with Forward by R. A. Skelton. Published by George Philip & Son Limited 1964.
Each entry gives exact details of title, size, extent, scale, key, decorative features, etc., and present location, and is followed by a careful collation of later editions, with all information necessary for identification, and of derivatives, reproductions and facsimiles.
As mentioned before I recommend developing a reference library geared towards your specific subject of interest. If that interest is 'London' then this is a super reference work that will set you right especially if you want to invest in printed maps of London. Books like this one are a great resource when it comes to understanding about maps and learning about your subject of interest. The benefits are many and the knowledge you gain will help you with the decision making process when it comes to future investments for your map collection.
I have a copy of "Printed Maps of London circa 1553-1850" available on my website HERE
Happy Reference Book Hunting!
Each entry gives exact details of title, size, extent, scale, key, decorative features, etc., and present location, and is followed by a careful collation of later editions, with all information necessary for identification, and of derivatives, reproductions and facsimiles.
As mentioned before I recommend developing a reference library geared towards your specific subject of interest. If that interest is 'London' then this is a super reference work that will set you right especially if you want to invest in printed maps of London. Books like this one are a great resource when it comes to understanding about maps and learning about your subject of interest. The benefits are many and the knowledge you gain will help you with the decision making process when it comes to future investments for your map collection.
I have a copy of "Printed Maps of London circa 1553-1850" available on my website HERE
Happy Reference Book Hunting!
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Another print from Jenkins The Martial Achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1799 to 1815. Below the print is a short excerpt from the original written account as published with the print. The Battle of Buçaco or Bussaco, fought on 27 September 1810 during the Peninsular War in the Portuguese mountain range of Serra do Buçaco, resulted in the defeat of French forces by Lord Wellington's Anglo-Portuguese Army.
Wellington's preparations for a defensive battle along the line of the Buçaco ridge had extended as far as the construction of a lateral communications road behind the crest. Although Wellington's forces were concentrated at the likely points of attack within the northern half of the 16km-long ridge, the communications road allowed troops to be moved quickly from one point to another.
Wellington's preparations for a defensive battle along the line of the Buçaco ridge had extended as far as the construction of a lateral communications road behind the crest. Although Wellington's forces were concentrated at the likely points of attack within the northern half of the 16km-long ridge, the communications road allowed troops to be moved quickly from one point to another.
Above: Battle of Busaco, Sept 27th, 1810. London Published June 1st 1815 by J. Jenkins, 48 Strand. From The Martial achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1799 to 1815 by James Jenkins.
Excerpt from the written account as published:
THE BATTLE OF BUSACO, SEPTEMBER 27, 1810.
THE Sierra de Busaço is a high ridge which extends from the Mondego in a northerly direction about eight miles, upon the highest point of which, about two miles from its termination, are the convent and garden of Busaço. The Sierra de Busaço is connected by a mountainous tract with the Sierra de Cara. The roads are all very difficult of access to an army, the approach to the top of the ridge being rugged and intersected. It was here the British army completely discomfited the forces of Massena.
At six in the morning of the 27th of September, according to the Gazette Extraordinary of October 15th, the enemy made two desperate attacks upon our position, the one on the right, the other on the left of the highest point of the Sierra. The attack upon the right was made by two divisions of the 2d corps on that part of the Sierra occupied by the 3d division of infantry. One division of
French infantry arrived at the top of the ridge, when it was attacked in the most gallant manner by the 88th-(see the Plate)-under the command of the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Wallace, the 45th under the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Meade, and the 5th Portuguese under Lieut.-Colonel Douglas, directed by Major-General Picton: these three corps advanced with the bayonet, and drove the enemy's division from the advantageous ground which it had obtained. The other division of the 2d corps attacked farther on the right, by the road leading to St. Antonio de Cantaro, also in front of Major-General Picton's division: this division of the enemy was repulsed, before it could reach the top of the ridge, by the 74th regt. under the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Freaeh, and the brigade of Portuguese infantry under Colonel Champelmond, directed by Colonel M'Kinnon. Major General Leith also moved to his left, to the support of Major-General Picton, and aided in the defeat of the enemy in this quarter with the 3d bat. of royals and the Ist and 2d batts. of the 38th.
In these attacks Major-Generals Leith and Picton, Colonels M'Kinnon and Champelmond of the Portuguese service, the latter of whom was wounded; the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonels Wallace and Meade, Lieatenant-Colonel Sutton of the 9th Portuguese, Major Samith of the 454h (hiled), Lieut. Colonel Douglas and Major Birmingham of the 8th Portuguese legion, greatly distinguished themselves. Major-General Picton reports in handsome terms of the 0th and 21st Portuguese regts. commanded by Lieutenant-Colonels Sutton and De Arouje Bacellar, and of the Portuguese artillery commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Arenschild. Particular mention is also made of the conduct . . .
How to Identify the Prints:
The original prints from The Martial achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1799 to 1815 are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper. Plates also exist that were printed on India Paper. They should clearly identify bottom left W. Heath (delt) who did the drawings and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced most of the aquatint engravings with some by D. Havell, M. Dubourg and J. Hill. Each plate has the date of publication and the name of the publisher beneath the engraved title. The approx engraved area of the plates are 8.5" x 7.75" (215mm x 195mm) including the engraved title text. Engraved plate mark area is approx 8.5 x 11.75 (215mm x 300mm). The large sheet size is approx 11.5" x 14" (290mm x 355mm).
You can see more prints from Jenkins The Martial achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1799 to 1815 HERE.
If you're interested in a specific print and you cannot see it on my website please feel free to message me.
Excerpt from the written account as published:
THE BATTLE OF BUSACO, SEPTEMBER 27, 1810.
THE Sierra de Busaço is a high ridge which extends from the Mondego in a northerly direction about eight miles, upon the highest point of which, about two miles from its termination, are the convent and garden of Busaço. The Sierra de Busaço is connected by a mountainous tract with the Sierra de Cara. The roads are all very difficult of access to an army, the approach to the top of the ridge being rugged and intersected. It was here the British army completely discomfited the forces of Massena.
At six in the morning of the 27th of September, according to the Gazette Extraordinary of October 15th, the enemy made two desperate attacks upon our position, the one on the right, the other on the left of the highest point of the Sierra. The attack upon the right was made by two divisions of the 2d corps on that part of the Sierra occupied by the 3d division of infantry. One division of
French infantry arrived at the top of the ridge, when it was attacked in the most gallant manner by the 88th-(see the Plate)-under the command of the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Wallace, the 45th under the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Meade, and the 5th Portuguese under Lieut.-Colonel Douglas, directed by Major-General Picton: these three corps advanced with the bayonet, and drove the enemy's division from the advantageous ground which it had obtained. The other division of the 2d corps attacked farther on the right, by the road leading to St. Antonio de Cantaro, also in front of Major-General Picton's division: this division of the enemy was repulsed, before it could reach the top of the ridge, by the 74th regt. under the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Freaeh, and the brigade of Portuguese infantry under Colonel Champelmond, directed by Colonel M'Kinnon. Major General Leith also moved to his left, to the support of Major-General Picton, and aided in the defeat of the enemy in this quarter with the 3d bat. of royals and the Ist and 2d batts. of the 38th.
In these attacks Major-Generals Leith and Picton, Colonels M'Kinnon and Champelmond of the Portuguese service, the latter of whom was wounded; the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonels Wallace and Meade, Lieatenant-Colonel Sutton of the 9th Portuguese, Major Samith of the 454h (hiled), Lieut. Colonel Douglas and Major Birmingham of the 8th Portuguese legion, greatly distinguished themselves. Major-General Picton reports in handsome terms of the 0th and 21st Portuguese regts. commanded by Lieutenant-Colonels Sutton and De Arouje Bacellar, and of the Portuguese artillery commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Arenschild. Particular mention is also made of the conduct . . .
How to Identify the Prints:
The original prints from The Martial achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1799 to 1815 are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper. Plates also exist that were printed on India Paper. They should clearly identify bottom left W. Heath (delt) who did the drawings and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced most of the aquatint engravings with some by D. Havell, M. Dubourg and J. Hill. Each plate has the date of publication and the name of the publisher beneath the engraved title. The approx engraved area of the plates are 8.5" x 7.75" (215mm x 195mm) including the engraved title text. Engraved plate mark area is approx 8.5 x 11.75 (215mm x 300mm). The large sheet size is approx 11.5" x 14" (290mm x 355mm).
You can see more prints from Jenkins The Martial achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1799 to 1815 HERE.
If you're interested in a specific print and you cannot see it on my website please feel free to message me.
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Collecting Antique Maps - The United States of North America by T. Bowen - More Tips for the Novice!
Last week I mentioned how the eighteenth century has much to offer the map collecting enthusiast. French cartographers played a significant role with the publishing of maps dominated by a small group of families. Germany saw a resurgence in map publishing with the firms of Homann, Seutter and Lotter. Look out here comes the British!
Bringing up the rear as it were at the latter part of the century the British Empire took the reins of naval and commercial power with expansion of the East India Company and colonisation, the invention of the marine chronometer and the discoveries of Captain James Cook. The centre of mapmaking now became London. English cartographers of the period include Thomas Jefferys, William Faden, Herman Moll and Robert Sayer to name a few.
Bringing up the rear as it were at the latter part of the century the British Empire took the reins of naval and commercial power with expansion of the East India Company and colonisation, the invention of the marine chronometer and the discoveries of Captain James Cook. The centre of mapmaking now became London. English cartographers of the period include Thomas Jefferys, William Faden, Herman Moll and Robert Sayer to name a few.
Above: Map of North East America c1784 showing the British and Spanish Territories by Thomas Bowen. Including the British and Spanish Territories, carefully laid down agreeable to the Treaty of 1784.
This map was published shortly after independence and prior to the admission of Kentucky, Tennessee or Vermont as states, although Vermont is named quite curiously appearing above "Hampshire." Both East and West Florida are shown. Many Indian tribes shown. Published: Engraved for Bankes's New system of universal geography, published by royal authority. This map is likely the 6th edition c1797 based on having a watermark for 1796.
Thomas Bowen (1749-1790) was a Welsh engraver of maps and charts. He was the son of Emanuel Bowen (1720-17670) the map engraver to George II of England and Louis XV of France. Bowen is highly regarded for producing some of the largest, most detailed and accurate maps of his era. These highly attractive maps were also worked on by his son Thomas. In spite of his royal patronage and renown, Emanuel Bowen like many cartographers of his day, died in poverty. His son Thomas continued on the business however a similar outcome befell him and he died in Clerkenwell Workhouse in 1790.
This map is currently up for sale at a reduced price as part of my "Mad as a March Hare" Sale. More information HERE
This map was published shortly after independence and prior to the admission of Kentucky, Tennessee or Vermont as states, although Vermont is named quite curiously appearing above "Hampshire." Both East and West Florida are shown. Many Indian tribes shown. Published: Engraved for Bankes's New system of universal geography, published by royal authority. This map is likely the 6th edition c1797 based on having a watermark for 1796.
Thomas Bowen (1749-1790) was a Welsh engraver of maps and charts. He was the son of Emanuel Bowen (1720-17670) the map engraver to George II of England and Louis XV of France. Bowen is highly regarded for producing some of the largest, most detailed and accurate maps of his era. These highly attractive maps were also worked on by his son Thomas. In spite of his royal patronage and renown, Emanuel Bowen like many cartographers of his day, died in poverty. His son Thomas continued on the business however a similar outcome befell him and he died in Clerkenwell Workhouse in 1790.
This map is currently up for sale at a reduced price as part of my "Mad as a March Hare" Sale. More information HERE
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If you're new to Antique Maps and thinking what next ? . . . . Back in January I published this free ebook to help to those new to the idea of antique maps and map collecting. If you missed this first time around here's another chance to grab the free download. It’s in pdf format so you can consume on the go! Perfect for your iPhone, tablet, iPad, laptop or desktop.
This is for those who are new to collecting or even new to the idea of collecting maps. This will help you get to grips with what you really need to know first. Jumping in feet first can be fun but leaves you open to the potential of making what could be an expensive mistake. I’ve been there so I’m adequately qualified!
This is for those who are new to collecting or even new to the idea of collecting maps. This will help you get to grips with what you really need to know first. Jumping in feet first can be fun but leaves you open to the potential of making what could be an expensive mistake. I’ve been there so I’m adequately qualified!
You can download your free copy today: bit.ly/3oHWt9Q
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Military History in the United Kingdom emerged during the eighteenth century with studies of the Napoleonic wars, especially the Peninsular and Waterloo campaigns. This interest in armed conflict remains today, with stories of campaigns and battles and the continuing assessment of leaders, tactics and their strategy. Nowadays its defined as a humanities discipline and also remains popular with antique print collectors with a passion for military history, records of armed conflict and rare prints depicting battle scenes.
These small scale maps and plans produced for Alison's History of Europe, Atlas published in 1875 remain popular with original print collectors. The atlas was intended to illustrate the most important period of modern history and consists of Plans, Sieges and Battles pointing out every circumstance of locality, affecting the operations detailed, and maps of extensive portions of country, exhibiting at one view the whole range of a campaign, with relative positions and political boundaries of Empire and States. Below is just one example of these popular little maps.
These small scale maps and plans produced for Alison's History of Europe, Atlas published in 1875 remain popular with original print collectors. The atlas was intended to illustrate the most important period of modern history and consists of Plans, Sieges and Battles pointing out every circumstance of locality, affecting the operations detailed, and maps of extensive portions of country, exhibiting at one view the whole range of a campaign, with relative positions and political boundaries of Empire and States. Below is just one example of these popular little maps.
Above: Battle of Rivoli 14th & 15th January 1793. From the Atlas to Alison's History of Europe By Sir Archibald Alison by Alexander Keith Johnson, F.R.S.E F.R.G.S. F.G.S. Published by William Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh and London c1875. Original map produced with mechanical outline colour. Addition later fine wash hand colour embellishments make this a unique edition of the map.
The Battle of Rivoli (14–15 January 1797) was a key victory in the French campaign in Italy against Austria. Napoleon Bonaparte's 23,000 Frenchmen defeated an attack of 28,000 Austrians under General of the Artillery Jozsef Alvinczi, ending Austria's fourth and final attempt to relieve the Siege of Mantua. Rivoli further demonstrated Napoleon's brilliance as a military commander and led to the French consolidation of northern Italy.
A selection of these Plans, Sieges and Battle Maps are available HERE
The Battle of Rivoli (14–15 January 1797) was a key victory in the French campaign in Italy against Austria. Napoleon Bonaparte's 23,000 Frenchmen defeated an attack of 28,000 Austrians under General of the Artillery Jozsef Alvinczi, ending Austria's fourth and final attempt to relieve the Siege of Mantua. Rivoli further demonstrated Napoleon's brilliance as a military commander and led to the French consolidation of northern Italy.
A selection of these Plans, Sieges and Battle Maps are available HERE
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Another exceptional aquatint print from James Jenkins The Naval Achievements of Great Britain. On 2 May 1795 Rear Admiral George Murray sent Captain Alexander Cochrane in Thetis, together with Hussar, to intercept three French supply ships reported at Hampton Roads. At daybreak on 17 May the British came upon five ships 20 leagues West by South from Cape Henry. The French made a line of battle to receive the British frigates. An action commenced, with three of the French vessels eventually striking their colours. Thetis took possession of the largest, which turned out to be Prévoyante, pierced for 36 guns but only mounting 24. Hussar captured a second, Raison, pierced for 24 guns but only mounting 18. An hour after she had struck, Prévoyante's main and foremast fell over the side. In the battle, Thetis had lost eight men killed and nine wounded; Hussar had only two men wounded.
Above: Capture of La Prevoyante and La Raison, May 17th 1795. Published June 1st 1816 at 48 Strand for J. Jenkins Naval Achievements. From The Naval achievements of Great Britain and Her Allies from 1793 to 1817 by J. Jenkins.
Excerpt from the written account as published:
MAY 17, 1795. COPY of a Letter from Captain COCHRANE, 0f his Majesty's Ship Thetis, to Evan NEPEAN, Esq.
SIR,
Be pleased to acquaint the Lords Commissoners of the Admiralty, that, in consequence of orders from Rear-Admiral Murray to cruise off the Chesapeak, to intercept the three French store-ships then lying in Hampton roads and ready for sea, I proceeded on the 2d instant with H. M. S. Hussar, and on the 17th, at daybreak, Cape Henry bearing E. by S. distant 20 leagues, we discovered five sail of ships standing to the N. W. with their larboard tacks on board. We soon perceived that they were ships of force: two of them appeared to carry from 28 to 30 guns on the main-deck, one of which had lower-deck ports; the three others from 20 to 24 guns. On observing us standing towards them, they formed a line of battle ahead, and prepared to receive us. At nine a. m. I made the Hussar a signal to prepare to engage the second ship of the enemy's van, intending in the Thetis to attack the centre ship, which appeared the largest, with the two others that formed the rear carrying a broad pendant. By this time we had got within half musket-shot, when the firing commenced on the side of the enemy, which was soon afterwards returned by his Majesty's ships. Before eleven we had closed with the enemy, and the Hussar had compelled the commodore and his second ahead to quit the line (see the annexed engraving), and make sail to the E. S. E. The fire of both ships then fell upon the centre ship and those in the rear. At a quarter before twelve the three ships struck their colours: the two in the rear attempted, notwithstanding, to make of, one of which was soon brought to by the Hussar. Within an hour after the largest ship struck, her main and foremasts went over her side; on taking possession, she proved to be La Prevoyante, pierced for 26 guns on the main-deck, with four other ports, which can be cut out at pleasure, and ten ports below: she had only 24 mounted, part of which they shifted over during the action. The ship the Hussar has taken possession of is called La Raison, carrying 18 guns, but pierced for 24, which, with the other three, had escaped from Guadaloupe on the 25th ult. and were bound to one of the American ports, to take ina cargo of provisions and naval stores for France.
At half past ten the enemy hoisted their colours, the second ship in the van . . .
How to Identify the Prints:
The original prints from "The Naval Achievements of Great Britain. From the Year 1793 to 1817" are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper. All the plates identify at bottom left Painted by T. Whitcombe and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced the aquatint engravings. Some plates were engraved by Jeakes and Bailey after Whitcombe. Each plate is accompanied by text pages describing the action, often with lists of ships captured or sunk, and excerpts from contemporary bulletins, dispatches, letters, and speeches. The first edition appeared in 1817. Early issues have watermarks of J. Whatman with the undated watermark IIS&S on some plates. The vignette title page was uncoloured in the first issue. The approx engraved image area of the plates are 7" x 10.25" (175mm x 260mm). Engraved plate mark area is approx 8.5 x 11.75 (215mm x 300mm). The folio sheet size is approx 11.5" x 14" (290mm x 355mm).
You can see more prints from Jenkins The Naval Achievements of Great Britain, From the Year 1793 to 1817 HERE. If you're interested in a specific print and you cannot see it on my website please feel free to message me
Excerpt from the written account as published:
MAY 17, 1795. COPY of a Letter from Captain COCHRANE, 0f his Majesty's Ship Thetis, to Evan NEPEAN, Esq.
SIR,
Be pleased to acquaint the Lords Commissoners of the Admiralty, that, in consequence of orders from Rear-Admiral Murray to cruise off the Chesapeak, to intercept the three French store-ships then lying in Hampton roads and ready for sea, I proceeded on the 2d instant with H. M. S. Hussar, and on the 17th, at daybreak, Cape Henry bearing E. by S. distant 20 leagues, we discovered five sail of ships standing to the N. W. with their larboard tacks on board. We soon perceived that they were ships of force: two of them appeared to carry from 28 to 30 guns on the main-deck, one of which had lower-deck ports; the three others from 20 to 24 guns. On observing us standing towards them, they formed a line of battle ahead, and prepared to receive us. At nine a. m. I made the Hussar a signal to prepare to engage the second ship of the enemy's van, intending in the Thetis to attack the centre ship, which appeared the largest, with the two others that formed the rear carrying a broad pendant. By this time we had got within half musket-shot, when the firing commenced on the side of the enemy, which was soon afterwards returned by his Majesty's ships. Before eleven we had closed with the enemy, and the Hussar had compelled the commodore and his second ahead to quit the line (see the annexed engraving), and make sail to the E. S. E. The fire of both ships then fell upon the centre ship and those in the rear. At a quarter before twelve the three ships struck their colours: the two in the rear attempted, notwithstanding, to make of, one of which was soon brought to by the Hussar. Within an hour after the largest ship struck, her main and foremasts went over her side; on taking possession, she proved to be La Prevoyante, pierced for 26 guns on the main-deck, with four other ports, which can be cut out at pleasure, and ten ports below: she had only 24 mounted, part of which they shifted over during the action. The ship the Hussar has taken possession of is called La Raison, carrying 18 guns, but pierced for 24, which, with the other three, had escaped from Guadaloupe on the 25th ult. and were bound to one of the American ports, to take ina cargo of provisions and naval stores for France.
At half past ten the enemy hoisted their colours, the second ship in the van . . .
How to Identify the Prints:
The original prints from "The Naval Achievements of Great Britain. From the Year 1793 to 1817" are aquatint engravings on a medium weight wove paper. All the plates identify at bottom left Painted by T. Whitcombe and bottom right T. Sutherland (sculpt) who produced the aquatint engravings. Some plates were engraved by Jeakes and Bailey after Whitcombe. Each plate is accompanied by text pages describing the action, often with lists of ships captured or sunk, and excerpts from contemporary bulletins, dispatches, letters, and speeches. The first edition appeared in 1817. Early issues have watermarks of J. Whatman with the undated watermark IIS&S on some plates. The vignette title page was uncoloured in the first issue. The approx engraved image area of the plates are 7" x 10.25" (175mm x 260mm). Engraved plate mark area is approx 8.5 x 11.75 (215mm x 300mm). The folio sheet size is approx 11.5" x 14" (290mm x 355mm).
You can see more prints from Jenkins The Naval Achievements of Great Britain, From the Year 1793 to 1817 HERE. If you're interested in a specific print and you cannot see it on my website please feel free to message me
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Founded by Nathaniel Currier in 1835, Currier & Ives was the major poster firm of the nineteenth century. James Merritt Ives joined Currier in 1857, and the two produced some of the most popular images of the period. Together they published thousands of prints of scenes that are still sought by collectors today. The firm Currier and Ives described itself as "Publishers of Cheap and Popular Prints". At least 7,500 lithographs were published in the firm's 72 years of operation.
Above: Original Engraved Lithograph VIEWS OF NEW YORK - BROADWAY FROM THE BOWLING GREEN, 1828 Published CURRIER & IVES, 152 Nassua Street, New York c1857. A hand coloured lithograph as issued on Heavy Laid Paper, good impression and clear plate mark. Painted by J Bennett & here engraved by R. J. Hutchinson. (Very few prints carried the original artist name, this one does). Engraved area size: 10.25" X 16.5" (260mm x 419mm) Blank to verso.
This is a rare view of Broadway as seen from the Bowling Green end in 1828. The figures depicted on the street scene are all fashionable dressed, with simple but finely tailored clothing, the men wear black top hats and the women and children wear bonnets or simple straw hats with garlands. A few dogs run into the street, carriages are parked along the side of the road, and a couple is riding on horseback along the street. From a series of "Views of New York" published by Currier & Ives.
This exceptional print is available now. You can see more info HERE
Happy Hunting!
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Another book recommendation for novice antique map collectors. I remember the first couple of maps I bought at auction were maps by Blaeu. At the time I was at the auction to buy what could best be describe as an elaborate floor standing ecclesiastical or masonic brass oil lamp which some idiot had converted to electric! I fully restored eventually. While at that auction these two maps had caught my eye and I just new they were special and I bought them. At the time I didn't even know the name Blaeu. From then on I've been hooked, I've learnt a lot about maps and still love the cartographic work of the Blaeu family. With this in mind this book is a must have and you can find copies on the internet not overly expensive.
As previously mentioned I recommend developing a reference library geared towards your specific subject of interest. The benefits are many and the knowledge you gain will help you with the decision making process when it comes to future investments for your map collection.
As previously mentioned I recommend developing a reference library geared towards your specific subject of interest. The benefits are many and the knowledge you gain will help you with the decision making process when it comes to future investments for your map collection.
Above: Blaeu's The Grand Atlas of the 17th Century World. INTRODUCTION BY JOHN GOSS, FOREWORD BY PETER CLARK, KEEPER(1989-92), ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY. Publisher: Royal Geographical Society London 1997.
This edition of Blaeu's 17th-century atlas includes the finest maps selected from the original nine volumes. These contained almost 600 maps, covering the entire world as it was known at that time. John Goss has supplied extended captions for the benefit of a modern readership.
JOAN BLAEU'S THE ATLAS MAJOR, first published in 1662, is still the largest atlas ever produced. Over six hundred maps portray the world as it was known in the middle of the 17th century with its great empires, far-off exotic kingdoms and lands of legend. The embellishment and decoration of these maps, unsurpassed in their beauty and sumptuous detail, bring to life a long-lost age of mapmaking.
These books are a great resource when it comes to understanding about maps and learning about your subject of interest.
More info on "Blaeu's The Grand Atlas of the 17th Century World" can be found HERE
Happy Reference Book Hunting!
This edition of Blaeu's 17th-century atlas includes the finest maps selected from the original nine volumes. These contained almost 600 maps, covering the entire world as it was known at that time. John Goss has supplied extended captions for the benefit of a modern readership.
JOAN BLAEU'S THE ATLAS MAJOR, first published in 1662, is still the largest atlas ever produced. Over six hundred maps portray the world as it was known in the middle of the 17th century with its great empires, far-off exotic kingdoms and lands of legend. The embellishment and decoration of these maps, unsurpassed in their beauty and sumptuous detail, bring to life a long-lost age of mapmaking.
These books are a great resource when it comes to understanding about maps and learning about your subject of interest.
More info on "Blaeu's The Grand Atlas of the 17th Century World" can be found HERE
Happy Reference Book Hunting!
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Back on my "More Tips for the Novice" theme its fair to say the eighteenth century has much to offer the map collecting enthusiast. Much of the world's cartography was still unmapped at the beginning of the century and the existence of an Antarctic continent was not known, while much of the Pacific remained undiscovered by Europeans until the end of the century.
As the century advanced there was a resurgence in Germany in map publishing with the firms of Homann, Seutter and Lotter. Matthäus Seutter (1678-1757) was one of the most important and prolific German mapmakers who began his career apprenticed as an engraver with J.B. Homann. Sometime in the early 18th century Seutter left Homann to establish his own independent cartographic publishing firm in Augsburg. Though he struggled in the early years of his independence, Seutter’s engraving skill and commitment to diversified map production eventually gained him a substantial following. In 1732 he was honoured by the German Emperor Charles VI with the title of “Imperial Geographer”. His most famous work is Atlas Novus Sive Tabulae Geographicae, published in two volumes ca. 1730.
As the century advanced there was a resurgence in Germany in map publishing with the firms of Homann, Seutter and Lotter. Matthäus Seutter (1678-1757) was one of the most important and prolific German mapmakers who began his career apprenticed as an engraver with J.B. Homann. Sometime in the early 18th century Seutter left Homann to establish his own independent cartographic publishing firm in Augsburg. Though he struggled in the early years of his independence, Seutter’s engraving skill and commitment to diversified map production eventually gained him a substantial following. In 1732 he was honoured by the German Emperor Charles VI with the title of “Imperial Geographer”. His most famous work is Atlas Novus Sive Tabulae Geographicae, published in two volumes ca. 1730.
Above: Matthäus Seutter, India Orientalis cum Adjacentibus Insulis Nova Delineatione ob oculos posita . . c1730/42
This is a nice example of Seutter's scarce map of the East Indies and part of Australia, from the Atlas Novus. The map extends from Japan and Persia in the North, to the Maldives and Australia and the Ladrones in the South and West. One of the most notable features of the map is that Australia continues to be attached to Nova Guinea, albeit with some hesitation, as the image extends outside the inner neatline to convey this information - this in spite of the fact that there are 20 or more place names along Australia's Northern Coastline. The detail throughout Southeast Asia is excellent and the print style typically strong. The cartouche is one of the more ornate Seutter cartouches, with elaborate scenes from sea, land, jungle and mythology .
This map is currently up for sale at a reduced price as part of my "Mad as a March Hare" Sale. More information HERE
This is a nice example of Seutter's scarce map of the East Indies and part of Australia, from the Atlas Novus. The map extends from Japan and Persia in the North, to the Maldives and Australia and the Ladrones in the South and West. One of the most notable features of the map is that Australia continues to be attached to Nova Guinea, albeit with some hesitation, as the image extends outside the inner neatline to convey this information - this in spite of the fact that there are 20 or more place names along Australia's Northern Coastline. The detail throughout Southeast Asia is excellent and the print style typically strong. The cartouche is one of the more ornate Seutter cartouches, with elaborate scenes from sea, land, jungle and mythology .
This map is currently up for sale at a reduced price as part of my "Mad as a March Hare" Sale. More information HERE
