Original engraving, British, early-to-mid 19th century. After Sir Joshua Reynolds (Reynolds Pinx.). Published posthumously, noting OB. 1792.
A 19th-century biographical engraving of George Brydges Rodney, 1st Baron Rodney (1718-1792), one of the most celebrated commanders in the history of the Royal Navy. The portrait is executed after a composition by Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792), the preeminent portrait painter of 18th-century Britain and first President of the Royal Academy, who painted Rodney in his later years of fame.
Rodney's career spanned five decades of naval warfare. He is best remembered for his decisive victory at the Battle of the Saintes (1782) against the French fleet under the Comte de Grasse during the American Revolutionary War -- a triumph that rescued British naval prestige and secured his elevation to the peerage as Baron Rodney. The posthumous notation OB. 1792 (obiit 1792) confirms this plate was produced after his death for a biographical collection honoring great British naval figures of the 18th century.
Dimensions: Sheet approx. 5 x 8.5 inches.
Condition: Reference grade. Significant age-related environmental damage: overall toning, scattered foxing, and a prominent moisture stain and tide line at the top margin. Central portrait remains legible. Priced accordingly. Sold as-is, unframed.
Shipping: Packed flat in a rigid mailer with protective packaging. Calculated USPS shipping from Las Cruces, NM.
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