Artwork

The Passage of Admiral Duckworth's Fleet in 1806-07 through the Dardanelles'

The Passage of Admiral Duckworth's Fleet in 1806-07 through the Dardanelles' is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist Francis B. Spilsbury. It dates from 1807 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This 1807 watercolour by Francis B.

About this work

Overview

This 1807 watercolour by Francis B. Spilsbury depicts a naval fleet navigating the Dardanelles.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows Admiral Sir John Thomas Duckworth's fleet, with Sir Sydney Smith as third in command, during a military operation. The level of detail suggests the artist may have been present, possibly under Smith's command.

Technique & Style

The watercolour features soft, dreamy effects, capturing the drama of the choppy sea and majestic warships with white sails and flying flags. The background landscape is hazy, with hills and a fort or castle.

History & Provenance

The work entered the Jas. Mackinnon collection in January 1976, having been purchased at Bonhams for £135. Details of the ships are referenced in the Searight Archive.