⚔️ Historic Naval Oil Painting — Admiral Hawke’s Victory at Quiberon Bay 1759
⚔️ Historic Naval Oil Painting — Admiral Hawke’s Victory at Quiberon Bay 1759 | Signed J.L. Chapman, Framed Masterpiece
🎨 Subject & Medium
Bring maritime history into your space with this striking original oil on board titled “The Battle of Quiberon Bay 1759” by renowned British marine artist John Lewis Chapman. Painted in the late 20th century, this piece vividly depicts one of Britain’s greatest naval victories — the legendary clash between the Royal Navy and the French fleet during the Seven Years’ War.
🖌️ Composition & Technique
Chapman’s composition is a masterclass in drama and balance. The viewer’s eye is drawn immediately to the central British frigate, shown proudly in full profile with tall masts and fluttering Union Jack. Surrounding it, chaos reigns: British ships press forward, French warships tilt and sink, and sailors cling to debris in the crashing surf.
The foreground brims with human urgency, while Chapman’s bold, textured brushstrokes capture the restless motion of the sea and the tension of battle. His rich color palette of stormy blues, moody grays, bright red and blue flags, and sharp white cannon smoke builds a scene full of atmosphere and emotion. It’s a brilliant blend of technical maritime precision and vivid, immersive storytelling.
⚔️ History of the Battle
The Battle of Quiberon Bay (20 November 1759) was a turning point in the Seven Years’ War. The French fleet, under Admiral Hubert de Conflans, was tasked with escorting 20,000 troops for an invasion of Britain. But British Admiral Sir Edward Hawke defied storms, nightfall, and dangerous reefs to launch a bold assault inside Quiberon Bay, smashing the French fleet.
The result: six French ships lost, one captured, and the rest scattered — ending France’s invasion dreams and marking Britain’s rise as the world’s dominant naval power. The battle was celebrated across Britain and immortalized in the iconic naval anthem “Hearts of Oak.”
✍️ Signature
Signed in the lower corner by the artist, J.L. Chapman.
👨🎨 About the Artist
John Lewis Chapman (b. 1946, Blackburn, England) is a respected British painter celebrated for his maritime, transport, and urban landscapes. Highly skilled in oils, acrylics, watercolors, and gouache, Chapman’s works have been shown at top galleries including the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, with auction sales surpassing $158,000 USD at Christie’s.
🖼️ Frame
Housed in its original ornate gilt decorative frame, perfectly complementing the painting’s dramatic subject and historic grandeur.
📏 Size
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Frame dimensions: 64 cm wide x 46.5 cm high x 5 cm deep
📜 Provenance
From a private marine collection, with prior acquisition from a respected Northern Shire auction and Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, and the artist’s own label verso.
💖 Why You’ll Love It
This is far more than a painting — it’s a historic showpiece that offers:
✅ A stunning, action-packed marine battle scene full of historical weight
✅ A striking centerpiece sure to impress guests, clients, or collectors
✅ A vivid, authentic tribute to 18th-century naval history
✅ Timeless decorative impact, perfect for home, office, or gallery walls
✅ A meaningful conversation starter with artistic and historic value
Ideal for art collectors, naval history lovers, or anyone seeking a dramatic, meaningful artwork to elevate their space.
🔍 Condition
In fine used condition: the painting surface shows light craquelure and minor foxing consistent with its age; the frame displays some scuffs, small chips, and paint loss, which enhance its authentic vintage character. Ready to hang with attached thread.
🌍 Worldwide Shipping Available
Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe international delivery.
🖼️ Available exclusively through Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
📩 Inquire now to secure this unique piece
