Artwork

Position [of] Russian Fleet Sebastopol. Friday 22nd. September 1854 7.30. AM

Position [of] Russian Fleet Sebastopol. Friday 22nd. September 1854 7.30. AM is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Montagu Frederick O'Reilly. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour depicts the Russian fleet in Sevastopol Harbour on 22 September 1854, at 7:30 AM.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour depicts the Russian fleet in Sevastopol Harbour on 22 September 1854, at 7:30 AM. Created by Commander Montagu Frederick O'Reilly of the Royal Navy, it captures the arrangement of the enemy's ships during a conflict.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a line of ships anchored in a calm harbour, with smoke rising from their stacks and a rocky hillside in the background. Handwritten numbers along the bottom indicate distances between the vessels, suggesting a documentary purpose.

Technique & Style

Executed in watercolour, the work balances precision with a loose, spontaneous feel, characteristic of on-the-spot recording. The artist's skill as a naval officer is evident in the detailed representation of the fleet's disposition.

History & Provenance

The watercolour was sold at Bonhams in October 1973 for £12. It is a historical record created during a conflict, providing insight into the arrangement of the Russian fleet at a specific moment.

Artist & collection

Artist

Montagu Frederick O'Reilly

This lieutenant in a British artillery regiment spent his free hours with a paintbox instead of a deck of cards.

Museum

Victoria and Albert Museum

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