Lot 77: James Warren Childe

Admiral John Jarvis Tucker, in dress uniform of blue coat with gold-bordered white facings and gold epaulettes; sky background
signed 'Childe', gilt-metal pendant frame with seed pearl and gold wire with lock of hair on translucent glass reverse
oval, 2 5/8 in. (63 mm.) high
See Illustration

Admiral John Jervis Tucker, named for Earl St. Vincent (Sir John Jervis) but not, apparently, related to him, entered the Royal Navy as a First Class Volunteer in H.M.S. St George in August 1815 just after the Napoleonic Wars had ended. After a spell on the North American station, he briefly served in the Royal George and Prince Regent, both royal yachts, before joining the 26-gun sloop Favourite which was stationed at St Helena for three years from late in 1817; during his sojourn there, Tucker is said to have met the exiled Napoleon who, liking him, allegedly gave him a miniature portrait ring. Promoted Lieutenant in 1822 and Commander in 1827, he pursued a full-time naval career, was made Captain in 1838 and, in 1855, was commanding the Formidable, the Guardship at Sheerness. Promoted Vice-Admiral in 1864, when he retired, he was made Admiral in 1869, and died in 1886.

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