Wyllie shows the Victory at sunset on the evening of 21 October. She is very badly damaged after the heavy cannonade she endured during the approach to battle.
Nelson’s flag flies half-mast, as a sign of mourning. And the lights of the cabin windows (middle row) are dark. This was the first indication to many in the rest of the fleet that Nelson was dead. “No lights in the Admiral’s cabin!”*
*Information next to the painting
A poignant painting.
When I visited Victory I struggled to comprehend what sailors on all sides had to endure, and how they managed to do so. A different view of life, I expect.
And then there is the “Why?”
Why we have to fight remains an issue.
It is a poignant painting.
I suppose the men endured because they had to…
There is the question of why there is the need to invade another nation. That is the opposite side of the coin as to why the need to fight.
it is a wonderful image of a great ship in distracter Cherie… i love your description of events….peter:)
It is a great ship and the painting is a fitting tribute.
I’ve not been to see Victory since I was at school. I suppose the face that it is just down the road means that I can go at any time. I believe it is still considered to be in active service!
She is the world’s oldest fully commisioned warship although due to her age and condition she is not likely to see much action.
A beautifully evocative painting and a Tribute.
It is a fine painting
Fabulous pictures of the Victory. A very proud ship and served in great sea battles.
) have fought many many battles at sea. I love the history and the many stories. I know you had a great time visiting the Victory. Can you imagine being on such a ship for months???
We Dutch and you English (
If the ship was sailing for pleasure rather than in battle the thought might be slightly more appealing…
Have you been to the Queen’s House in Greenwich?
You can find lots of naval related paintings there.
But the most beautiful thing is probably their Tulip Staircase.
Google it.
I have never quite made it there when I have been in Greenwich. It is on my list of things to do.