Lot 42: Thomas Leemans (fl. c.1720-40)

A first rate man-o'war, firing a salute from her position within an offshore anchorage
oil on canvas
53 x 71 1/3 in. (134.6 x 181.3 cm.)

This work, somewhat typical of Leemans' output, shows a large three-decked first rate, clearly the flagship, lying at anchor amidst other vessels of the fleet as they dry their sales offshore. Off the flagship's port quarter, an admiral's barge can be seen pulling away from her and the man-o'war's salute is probably to alert her consorts that their commander is either going ashore or transferring his flag. Beyond the anchorage, the topography is suggestive of Harwich, although this location cannot be identified with certainty.
We are grateful to Michael Naxton for his help in preparing this catalogue entry.

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