Lot 62: Views of the Battle of Copenhagen (a pair) 18 3/4 x 25 1/4in (47.6 x 64.2cm)

Views of the Battle of Copenhagen (a pair) both signed 'J.M. Bang' (lower right) pen and ink and watercolor heightened with white on laid paper 18 3/4 x 25 1/4in (47.6 x 64.2cm)

47.6 x 64.2cm

One drawing shows the ship formations and action on the 30th of March 1801 with an inscription in Danish detailing ships and their captains below, and the other shows the Danish defenses of Copenhagen and the battle on the 2nd of April with an inscription in Danish of captains' and ship names. The Battle of Copenhagen was an important engagement between Britain, who sought to maintain an embargo against those who would trade with France during the French Revolutionary Wars, and those in Europe who were hostile against the blockade. Thecommander of the defending fleet in this battle was Commodore Olfert Fischer with Admiral Sir Hyde Parker commanding the British fleet. This battle proved to be a significant defeat for the Danish-Norwegian allies, however, heavy damage was sustained to both sides. The Battle of Copenhagen is often considered to be the hardest ever fought by Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson, who led the main attack. It has been suggested that the artist could be Jens Bang (Danish, 1737-1808).