Thomas Buttersworth (1768-1842) English, 'The Loss of the 'Royal George' 104 Guns off Spithead, 29th August 1782', oil on canvas, a view of a tilting Royal George, surrounded by rescue boats with many figures scrambling for safety, 55 cm x 84 cm in a gilt gesso frame.

HMS Royal George was a ship of the line of the Royal Navy and was the largest warship in the world at the time of her launch on 18 February 1756. The ship sank during maintenance work to the hull in 1782, when the intended 'roll' put on the boat saw water entering due to rough seas. More than 800 lives were lost, making it one of the worst maritime disasters to occur in British waters.

Provenance: Gallery label for David Messum, Beaconsfield verso, bought from there by private vendors in the Beaconsfield area.

Condition Report

One area of re-touching/repair to lower central area, and one small bit of paint loss to the left-middle side, otherwise good with no apparent further paint loss. Thin cracking appearing on lighter painted areas, visible on close inspection. Unsigned and would benefit from a professional clean. Frame with some wear. Full dimensions to include frame: 74.5 cm x 115 cm.