Warships on a Calm Sea | John Ward | 19th Century 20th Century To this end

To this end

Antonie Waldorp

planned a bold night assault: they deployed fireships—vessels loaded with combustibles designed to drift into enemy ranks and ignite them—which

Commanded by Captain James Talbot

it also reduced the cost of passage to 35 guineas

Warships on a Calm Sea | John Ward | 19th Century 20th Century To this endWarships on a Calm Sea by John Ward of Hull (17981849) depicts a serene maritime vista in which a fleet of naval vessels lies at anchor upon still waters. The artists precise handling of light and atmosphere emphasizes the imposing scale and architectural grandeur of the ships of the line, their sails poised in quiet readiness. Smaller craft and a rowing boat introduce a human element, offering contrast to the stately calm of the larger warships.