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Admiral Sir John Balchen (1670-1744), c.1695 (oil on canvas)
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Admiral Sir John Balchen (1670-1744), c.1695 (oil on canvas)
7337828 Admiral Sir John Balchen (1670-1744), c.1695 (oil on canvas) by Richardson, Jonathan (1665-1745); 127x102.5 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: Jonathan Richardson
A three-quarter-length portrait to left in a blue coat, with gold clasps and a heavy gold embroidered sash. He wears a sword belt around his waist and a brown full-bottomed wig. He gestures with his right hand towards a ship in the left background, half out of the picture and flying the red ensign. When commanding the Chester, 50 guns, in 1707, Balchen was captured by the French commander Forbin. He became Governor of Greenwich Hospital in 1743 and in 1744 was recalled to sea to command a squadron to relieve Charles Hardy, who was blockaded in the Tagus. During the voyage home his fleet was scattered by a storm in the Channel and he went down with his flagship the Victory, 100 guns, which was lost with all hands.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38431100
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning portrait captures the distinguished Admiral Sir John Balchen in all his glory, painted by the talented Jonathan Richardson around 1695. Dressed in a regal blue coat with gold clasps and an intricately embroidered sash, Balchen exudes authority and strength. His brown full-bottomed wig adds to his commanding presence as he gestures towards a ship in the background, symbolizing his illustrious naval career.
Balchen's legacy is one of bravery and sacrifice, as seen through his capture by the French commander Forbin while commanding the 'Chester' in 1707. Despite facing adversity, he rose to become Governor of Greenwich Hospital and was called back to sea in 1744 to lead a squadron on a daring mission. Tragically, during this voyage, his flagship 'Victory' was lost at sea along with all hands on board.
This portrait serves as a poignant reminder of Admiral Sir John Balchen's unwavering dedication to duty and honor. His story is one of courage in the face of danger and ultimate sacrifice for king and country. The intricate details captured by Richardson bring this historical figure to life, allowing us to glimpse into the past and pay tribute to a true hero of the seas.
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