$1,230
Jones, John Paul (1747-1792) Combat Memorable entre Le Pearson et Paul Jones. Augsburg: Academie Imperiale, [c. 1781]. Hand-colored engraving, originally published in the series, "Collection des Prospects," matted, 18 1/2 x 14 in. The Revolutionary War naval engagement depicted occurred in the English Channel on 23 September 1779 between the Bonhomme Richard , captained by John Paul Jones, and the British ship Serapis , commanded by Captain Richard Pearson. It was in this battle that Jones made his immortal declaration, "I have not yet begun to fight!" In the image, plumes of smoke surround the ships, cannons blaze, and a few unfortunate sailors knocked overboard cling to a broken mast. This image was meant to be viewed through a machine with special mirrored lenses to produce a three-dimensional effect. The title was printed backwards to accommodate the reversal. Provenance: The Estate of David Spinney.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2016-10-30