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The capture of the 'Alcide' and 'Lys', 8 June 1755, 18th century (oil on canvas)
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The capture of the 'Alcide' and 'Lys', 8 June 1755, 18th century (oil on canvas)
7337648 The capture of the 'Alcide' and 'Lys', 8 June 1755, 18th century (oil on canvas) by British School, (18th Century); 94x132.1 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: British School
On the belief that the French were preparing to build up their military presence in America, in April 1755 an English naval squadron was despatched to America. The aim was to catch the French fleet in a net of British war ships. In charge was Admiral Boscawen who, having received his orders, got his fleet of fourteen ships underway, followed soon afterwards by seven more ships under Admiral Holbourne. By the end of May, 1755, a British war fleet was cruising between the southern coast of Newfoundland and the northern coast of Cape Breton. At the same time, after a considerable delay the French fleet left Brest on May 3rd, 1755. Aboard were 3,000 troops, with Admiral de la Motte in charge of the French fleet which had been dispatched with provisions for the French colonies in North America.
In foggy conditions off the Newfoundland Banks, four French warships of de la Motte's fleet became separated from their fleet and were sighted on 6 June and chased. They played hide and seek in the fog until two of them were brought to action and taken. A third that had been sighted and chased and escaped in the fog. Even though war was not officially declared, Boscawen had been ordered to attack any French squadron he met. The French 'Alcide' and 'Lys' were captured which resulted in the first shots of the Seven Years War, 1756-1763.
In the foreground of this contemporary painting, the 'Defiance', commanded by Captain Thomas Andrews is firing into the French warship the 'Lys', which is not replying. Between the two ships in the background can be seen the 'Dunkirk'' commanded by Captain the Hon. Richard Howe and the 'Alcide' commanded by Captain de Hocquart. On the left an English merchantman is shown coming towards the viewer.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38106416
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
18e Siecle 18th Century 18th Centuries Art Fine Art Battleship Captivity Capture Combatant Ship Fleet Marines Maritime Force Naval Battle Naval Force Naval Infantry Oil On Wood Oil Painting Sail Boat Sail Boats Sailboat Sailboats Sailing Boat Sailing Ship Sailing Vessel See Battle Ships Sail War Ship Warship Warships
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning 18th-century oil painting captures a pivotal moment in naval history - the capture of the French warships 'Alcide' and 'Lys' on 8 June 1755. Painted by the British School, this masterpiece showcases the intense battle between English and French forces off the coast of Newfoundland.
The scene depicts Admiral Boscawen's fleet engaging with Admiral de la Motte's French squadron in foggy conditions, resulting in the capture of two enemy ships. The 'Defiance', commanded by Captain Thomas Andrews, is shown firing into the helpless 'Lys', while other vessels like the 'Dunkirk' and 'Alcide' are engaged in combat in the background.
This historic event marked the beginning of hostilities that would eventually escalate into the Seven Years War (1756-1763). Despite war not being officially declared at this point, both sides were prepared to engage in fierce battles to assert their dominance over North American waters.
The level of detail and action captured in this painting is truly remarkable, offering viewers a glimpse into a tumultuous period of maritime conflict. The bravery and skill displayed by sailors on both sides are immortalized in this artwork, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made during times of war.
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