The Battells One the 28th of May 1672.

Description

This is a 1901 chromolithograph depicting the 1672 Battle of Solebay during the Third Anglo-Dutch War. It was issued by the Navy Records Society, based on the work of Willem van de Velde the Elder, a notable Dutch marine painter. It shows the intense naval battle with detailed illustrations of ships, cannon fire, and key moments, including the damage to the Earl of Sandwich’s ship.

The Battle of Solebay occurred on May 28, 1672, off the coast of Suffolk, England, during the Third Anglo-Dutch War. It was a naval conflict between the English and French fleets allied against the Dutch Republic. The battle began when the Dutch fleet, led by Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, launched a surprise attack on the English and French ships anchored at Solebay. Despite heavy losses on both sides, the battle ended inconclusively, with no clear victor, but it prevented the English and French fleets from blockading the Dutch coast.

Willem van de Velde the Elder (1611–1693) was a renowned Dutch marine painter known for his detailed and accurate depictions of naval battles and ships. He was one of the most influential maritime artists of the 17th century, capturing naval warfare with remarkable precision and realism. Van de Velde often worked alongside his son, Willem van de Velde the Younger, who was also a prominent marine artist. They were employed by the Dutch navy and later by the English court to document naval engagements, making significant contributions to marine art history.

Census

This piece is not cataloged in OCLC. We know of only two instances that it has appeared on the private market, both at auction. It is co-owned with Geographicus Antique Maps.