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Nelson and the bear, c.1806 (oil on oak panel)
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Nelson and the bear, c.1806 (oil on oak panel)
7295328 Nelson and the bear, c.1806 (oil on oak panel) by Westall, Richard (1765-1836); 36.8x55.8 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: Richard Westall
In 1773 Horatio Nelson served as a midshipman in the Carcass, Captain Skeffington Lutwidge, which sailed under Captain Constantine Phipps in the Racehorse on a Polar expedition to try to find a north-east passage to the Pacific. These two strongly built bomb-vessels were both obliged to return when they found their way impenetrably barred by ice to the north of Spitsbergen. During the attempt, Nelson set off with a friend to stalk a polar bear. His musket misfired and he attacked the bear with the butt-end until saved from harm by a rift in the ice, which separated him from the animal. A gun was also fired from the ship to scare the bear off and Nelson justified his action to a furious Captain Lutwidge by stating that he wished to kill the bear to take its skin home to his father.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38369536
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This oil painting by Richard Westall depicts a thrilling moment in the adventurous life of Horatio Nelson, one of Britain's greatest naval heroes. In 1773, a young Nelson found himself face to face with a polar bear during a failed expedition to find a north-east passage to the Pacific. Armed only with a misfiring musket, he bravely fought off the bear with the butt-end until saved by an unexpected rift in the ice.
The intense scene captured in this artwork showcases Nelson's courage and determination in the face of danger. His desire to bring home the bear's skin as a trophy for his father further illustrates his bold spirit and sense of adventure.
Through Westall's skilled brushwork, we are transported back in time to witness this dramatic encounter between man and beast. The detailed rendering of Nelson and the bear against the icy backdrop creates a sense of urgency and excitement that is palpable even centuries later.
This painting serves as a reminder of Nelson's remarkable exploits at sea and his unwavering commitment to duty. It stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as one of history's most celebrated naval commanders.
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