'The Cockpit HMS Victory'

An etching, showing the cockpit of the ‘Victory’. It concentrates on the spot where Nelson died during the Battle of Trafalgar, 21 October 1805. Bereft of any furnishings, the stark image focuses on the lettering on the plaque, ‘Here Nelson Died’ to convey the message. The space takes on a sacred relevance with the positioning of the laurel wreath, hallowing the ground. The strong geometric checked black-and-white pattern of the floorcloth underscores the artist’s interest in an aesthetic interpretation of the scene. At the time this was made the ‘Victory’ was still afloat at Portsmouth but already a visitor attraction.

Object Details

ID: PAD5973
Collection: Fine art
Type: Print
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Barrett, C. R. B.; Dobson, R.
Vessels: Victory (1765)
Date made: 1889
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London. We regret that Museum enquiries have not been able to identify the copyright holder and would welcome any information that would help us update our records. Please contact the Picture Library.
Measurements: Mount: 135 mm x 185 mm