Battle of Trafalgar, 1805 (Cabo Trafalgar, Andalusia, Spain) 36°10'51"N 06°02'01"W

A view of the early stages of the naval Battle of Trafalgar, fought on 21 October 1805 between the British and the French, resulting in a British victory. Napoleonic Wars (1803-15).

This view shows the rear ships of the British fleet, all flying the White Ensign (a red St George's Cross on a white field with the Union Flag in the upper canton; Nelson had been promoted to Vice-Admiral of the White on 23 April 1804), engaging with the French ships, seen here in the background.

This is the second of four views (Plates 1 and 2 are unnumbered in this set) by Dodd of the Battle of Trafalgar. The companion prints are at RCINs 735121.a,c,d. These appear to be the originals of the views described in Parker 175.a which refers to a reprint made in 1843 by J.W. Laird. Laird's views, which appear to be a restrike from the original copperplates, were apparently reprinted about 1960.

The upper-case letters in the title are engraved in outline, suggesting that this example may be a proof impression; this is confirmed by the word 'Proof', which is very faintly engraved, bottom right below the edge of the view.

Dedication: [bottom, below title:] To my Country Men, These Prints descriptive of the ever memorable attack on the Combined Fleets of France and Spain by the British Fleet under the Command / of the Illustrious Lord Nelson, as a Monument and tribute of respect to his Memory, is with the greatest deference submitted, By their Obed^t humble Servant / Rob,,^t Dodd.

Condition: no fold lines; small tear to right edge. Verso: induced discolouration.