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The Battle of Leghorn, 4 March 1653, mid 17th century (oil on canvas)
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The Battle of Leghorn, 4 March 1653, mid 17th century (oil on canvas)
7337609 The Battle of Leghorn, 4 March 1653, mid 17th century (oil on canvas) by Diest, Willem van (1610-1663); 68.5x78.5 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: Willem Hermansz van Diest
Early in 1653 the English position in the Mediterranean became critical, the Dutch had been blockading Captain Appleton's squadron in Leghorn while the rest of the English ships under Captain Badiley were at Elba. The Dutch massed all their ships off Leghorn, enabling Badiley to leave Elba and attempt to join Appleton. The Grand Duke of Tuscany was urging Appleton to leave and a scheme was tried for Badiley to beat up to the Dutch while Appleton was to run before the wind out of Leghorn and meet him as he reached the Dutch. It was a difficult manoeuvre to time and in the event Appleton sailed too soon and was badly beaten before Badiley could get into action. Only one ship fought her way through to join Badiley who, seeing that the situation was hopeless, quitted the Mediterranean.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38431110
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
Battleship Brazier Braziers Cannons Canons Combatant Ship Demolish Demolishes Demolition Fires Flame Mediterranean Sea Mediterrean Sea Naval Battle Sail Boat Sail Boats Sailboats Sailing Ship Sailing Vessel Seawater See Battle Ships Sail War Ship Warship Warships 17th Centuries Dutch Netherlands Flames Hollander Hollanders Netherland Netherlands Holland Dutch The Netherland
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Battle of Leghorn, 4 March 1653, captured in this stunning oil on canvas by Willem van Diest, depicts a crucial moment in English naval history during the mid-17th century. The English position in the Mediterranean was under threat as the Dutch blockaded Captain Appleton's squadron in Leghorn while the rest of the English ships were stationed at Elba.
In a daring attempt to break through the Dutch blockade, Captain Badiley set out to join forces with Appleton. However, timing was crucial and Appleton sailed too soon, resulting in a devastating defeat for the English fleet. Only one ship managed to fight its way through to join Badiley before he made the difficult decision to retreat from the Mediterranean altogether.
This painting captures the chaos and intensity of battle at sea, with ships engaged in fierce combat amidst turbulent waters. The intricate details and dramatic composition bring this historical event to life, showcasing both the bravery and strategic challenges faced by naval commanders during this tumultuous period.
Displayed at the National Maritime Museum in London, this artwork serves as a reminder of past conflicts and maritime struggles that have shaped our world today. It is a testament to courage and sacrifice on both sides of The Battle of Leghorn that will forever be remembered through art like this masterpiece by Willem van Diest.
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