May 27, 2020 Founders & Patriots
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/27/2020
Unknown artist, 19th c. American School. "The United States Frigate 'Constitution' versus His Majesty's Frigate 'Java'." Oil on wood panel, 13 1/2 x 19 inches, within carved and gilded frame. On December 29, 1812, the Constitution engaged and defeated the Java off the coast of Brazil. The Constitution suffered 34 men killed and wounded, while the Java had 150 men killed or wounded. William Bainbridge, the captain of the Constitution, was wounded twice during the battle; Captain Lambert of the Java was killed. The Java, as seen here, lost all of her masts and rigging and was also heavily hulled. Unsalvageable, she was scuttled. This view is reminiscent of Thomas Birch's 2nd view of the battle, painted and later produced as a print in 1813. However, there are slight differences in the angles of the two ships as viewed, as well as rigging and flag details. A handsomely rendered depiction with good coloring, probably by a sign painter or itinerant artist. CONDITION: panel slightly bowed on upper edge; paint surface with notable alligatoring and craquelure, primarily in the sky and upper rigging. JLK