Plate 2nd. the Java, as she appeared at 35 Min. past 4 P.M. after having sustained several raking Broadsides from the Constitution.

BUCHANAN, Lieutenant drawn and etched by Nicholas POCOCK and engraved by R & D HAVELL

Published by Published by Messrs. Boydell & Co., and Colnaghi & Co, London, 1814

Colour printed aquatint with additional hand colouring. Printed on wove paper. In fair condition with the exception of numerous skillfully repaired tears across sheet. Corner's have been expertly infilled. Image size: 14 x 17 7/8 inches. This dramatic image is the second plate is a rare suite of four aquatints depicting the sea battle between the American frigate "Constitution" and the British ship "Java". This dramatic image is the second plate in a suite of four aquatints engraved by R. and D. Havell. The series depicts the celebrated American naval victory off the coast of Brazil, between the U.S. frigate "Constitution" and the British ship "Java". The year 1812 witnessed five American single-ship victories against the British navy, most noted of which was the action between the "Constitution" and the "Java". After only a two hour confrontation the "Constitution", under the command of William Bainbridge, completely dismasted the "Java". The "Java" was forced to surrender, but was so damaged that it had to be burned at sea. Commodore Bainbridge was later praised both for his courage during the action and his subsequent humane treatment of his opponent Captain Lambert and his crew. Bainbridge justly received the wild plaudits of the people of Boston and indeed of the nation as the news spread. Grolier 78; Olds, Bits and Pieces of American History, no. 182; cf. Parker 228a; Smith 93; Chatterton, Old Ship Prints, p. 167. Seller Inventory # 3488

Bibliographic Details

Title: Plate 2nd. the Java, as she appeared at 35 ...
Publisher: Published by Messrs. Boydell & Co., and Colnaghi & Co, London
Publication Date: 1814