Prelude to Trafalgar by Ivan
Berryman. Part of a series of Trafalgar paintings by Ivan
Berryman, featuring HMS Victory, Nelson, and the British, French and
Spanish ships of the Battle of Trafalgar. 21st
October 1805. As Admiral Nelsons flagship leads the British fleet
towards the Franco-Spanish line, Captain Harveys Temeraire tries to pass
the Victory in order to be the first to break the enemy column. Harvey
was discouraged with a customry rebuke from Nelson and duly fell into
line behind the flagship. The enemy can be seen spread along the horizon
whilst, to the right in the distance, the leading ships of Admiral
Collingwoods fleet can be seen spearheading a separate assault to the
south. In the light airs preceding the battle, much sail was needed to
drive the British ships towards the enemy line. HMS Victory, nearest,
has royals and stunsails set and is making good way, her furniture boats
strung behind in readiness for battle. On her poop deck, officers
prepare to run up a signal. |
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Research photographs: |
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Various shots of HMS Victory of particular relevance
to this artwork, taken by Ivan Berryman, about 2002 - 2003. The
sole surviving British warship of this time, and restored her former
glory, this museum provides great insight into not only HMS Victory, but
many of the other ships of the time.
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