18th century English Maritime scene, with Dutch and English ships in Battle

Attributed to Francis Swaine (British, 1725-1782)
Naval Engagement at Sea, 18th century
Oil on panel

In this evocative seascape, a cluster of ships-flags raised, cannons fired-converge amid churning waters and a smoky, windswept sky. Attributed to the British marine painter Francis Swaine, the painting embodies the drama and movement characteristic of 18th-century maritime art. Billowing sails, taut rigging, and the roiling waves all point to an artist deeply attuned to the language of the sea.

Francis Swaine was part of a distinguished lineage of British marine painters, and his works often reflect a balance between documentary detail and theatrical flourish. The careful delineation of ships' architecture suggests firsthand knowledge of naval design, while the sense of atmosphere-clouds streaked with smoke, light playing across water-lends the work a cinematic quality.

Swaine was believed to be a student and later son-in-law of Peter Monamy, another respected marine painter of the era. This association, along with Swaine's own experience with the Royal Navy, helped shape a body of work that captured both the power and peril of maritime life during Britain's rise as a seafaring empire.

Whether depicting actual naval encounters or imagined engagements, Swaine's paintings offered patriotic audiences a stirring visual record of Britain's command of the seas. This piece is no exception-full of energy, tension, and the echo of cannon fire, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of maritime mastery.

• Height 30.47 cm / 12 "
• Width 35.55 cm / 14 "