Description

Title: Epic Battle of Quiberon Bay 1759 Admiral Hawke Victory vs French Conflans Fleet

Description:

Epic Marine Oil Painting “Battle of Quiberon Bay 1759” English Admiral Hawke Victory vs. French Admiral Conflans FleetSigned J.L. ChapmanFramed Masterpiece

Subject & Medium
This is a powerful original oil on board titled “The Battle of Quiberon Bay 1759” by renowned British marine artist John Lewis Chapman. Created in the late 20th century, it vividly captures one of Britain’s greatest naval triumphs — a high-stakes, history-making clash between the Royal Navy and the French fleet during the Seven Years’ War. Circa late 20th century.

Composition & Technique
Chapman’s composition is masterfully designed for maximum drama and storytelling. Your eye is immediately drawn to the central British frigate, proudly sailing in full side profile, its tall masts crowned with snapping Union Jack and ensigns. From there, the scene radiates outward: on one flank, British ships close in for the kill; on the other, battered French warships tilt dangerously, one sinking bow-first with a shattered mast, another locked in a last fierce cannon exchange.

The foreground is packed with human drama — sailors thrashing in the icy waves, clinging to debris, while longboats dash through the roaring surf to rescue survivors. Chapman’s bold, textured brushstrokes bring the churning sea and exploding cannon fire to life.

The color palette is rich and atmospheric: stormy grays and deep blues dominate the sea and sky, accented by the warm ochres and browns of the wooden ships, the sharp reds and blues of naval flags, and the striking white bursts of gunfire and smoke. Above, the clouds part just slightly, hinting at light and victory beyond the storm. This is not just a marine painting — it’s a powerful, immersive scene that captures the full energy and peril of 18th-century naval warfare.

History of the Battle
The Battle of Quiberon Bay (20 November 1759) was a decisive naval engagement during the Seven Years’ War, fought between the British Royal Navy under Admiral Sir Edward Hawke and the French fleet under Admiral Hubert de Conflans.

France’s plan to invade Britain with 20,000 troops depended on its navy, but Hawke’s daring pursuit turned the tables. Conflans sought refuge in the treacherous, reef-filled Quiberon Bay, wrongly assuming Hawke would not follow. But Hawke launched a fearless attack through the reefs and the gathering night, smashing the French fleet: six ships destroyed, one captured, the rest scattered.

The victory crushed French invasion hopes, secured Britain’s mastery of the seas, and inspired the famous naval song “Hearts of Oak” — marking the start of Britain’s rise as the world’s leading naval power.

Signature
Signed by the artist, J.L. Chapman, in the lower corner.

?About the Artist
John Lewis Chapman (b. 1946, Blackburn, England) is a highly regarded British painter known for maritime, urban, and transport scenes. A master of oils, acrylics, watercolors, and gouache, Chapman has exhibited widely, including at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, and his works have achieved top auction results — selling for over $158,000 USD at Christie’s. In our opnion this is among his finest dramatic works.

Frame
Set in its original ornate gilt decorative frame, beautifully complementing the painting’s grandeur and historic subject.

Dimensions Framed
64 cm wide x 46.5 cm high x 5 cm deep

Provenance
From a private marine collection, acquired via a prestigious Northern Shire auction and Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, complete with the artist’s own label verso.

Why You’ll Love It
This is more than just a painting — it’s a commanding historic statement piece that offers:
A stunning, large-scale marine battle scene full of action and drama
A centerpiece that will impress guests, clients, or collectors alike
A vivid slice of 18th-century history, masterfully captured by a renowned artist
Timeless visual impact, perfect for home, office, or gallery display
A conversation starter packed with historical significance and artistic excellence

Whether you’re a seasoned art collector, a naval history enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a bold, meaningful artwork to elevate your space, this piece delivers beauty, power, and story in one.

Condition
Fine used condition: the painting surface shows light craquelure and minor foxing consistent with age; the frame has some scuffs, small chips, and paint loss that add authentic vintage charm. Ready to hang with attached thread.

Reserve: $10,960.00

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Condition

Used

Buyer's Premium

20%

Epic Battle of Quiberon Bay 1759 Admiral Hawke Victory vs French Conflans Fleet

Name: Epic Battle of Quiberon Bay 1759 Admiral Hawke Victory vs French Conflans Fleet
SKU: 225794201
Price: 5000 USD
Availability: InStock