Guardian of the Empire: HMS Victory

24" x 36" — oil on canvas

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Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson (1758-1805) is considered one of England’s greatest military heroes. His victories at sea, in battles like The Battle of Cape St. Vincent, and The Battle of the Nile, showcased his inspiring leadership skills and innovative maneuvers. But it was aboard the 104 Gun First Rate Ship of the Line HMS Victory, that he achieved his greatest triumphs and suffered his greatest tragedy, for she served as his flagship in the decisive Battle of Trafalgar, off the coast of Spain on October 21, 1805. Nelson’s fleet, consisting of 23 vessels and 20,000 men, faced the combined French and Spanish Fleets of 40 vessels and 35,000 men. Yet, by the end of the battle, Britain was victorious having killed, wounded or captured almost 15,000 of the enemy, while losing only 458 themselves. Unfortunately, Nelson himself was among the fatalities having been killed while standing on deck by French sniper fire. While many books and tactical studies have been written about Nelson’s battle strategies. Artist Patrick O’Brien shows us what it might have felt like to be a French sailor looking up to see the massive 227 foot long, 51 foot wide, 2,000 ton ship barreling right for you in battle--What a sight!

Her Majesty’s Ship Victory is the most famous ship of the Napoleonic era. Launched in 1759, she is best known for being Admiral Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar. Nelson was shot down and killed on the Victory’s quarterdeck during the battle. Victory is preserved as a museum ship in Portsmouth, England.