A Correct View of the French Flat-Bottom Boats...
Image information
A Correct View of the French Flat-Bottom Boats...
This print, published only a few months after the resumption of war between Britain and France, and in response to a very serious invasion fear in Britain, recapitulates similar images produced during the invasion scare of 1798 (for examples, see PAH7426 and PAH7433). Unlike the earlier prints, however, with their monstrous and bizarre 'rafts' for transporting huge numbers of troops, this shows much more feasible vessels and appears to be based on much better founded information. The caption claims that they could carry 500 men each. Showing the boats in both bow view and port profile, the print follows the visual conventions for documentary accuracy. However, the decorative treatment of the waves and the use of colour also give it the feel of a satirical print. If the caption is reliable in claiming that the boats were seen in August 1803, its publication on 17 August demonstrates a remarkably rapid response in broadcasting this information.
John Fairburn
Original size: 259 mm x 403 mm
- Image reference: PY7437
- National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Discover more
More by this artist
Search for similar images
Product images of A Correct View of the French Flat-Bottom Boats...
Our prints
We use a 240gsm fine art paper and premium branded inks to create the perfect reproduction.
Our expertise and use of high-quality materials means that our print colours are independently verified to last between 100 and 200 years.
Read more about our fine art prints.
Manufactured in the UK
All products are printed in the UK, using the latest digital presses and a giclée printmaking process.
We only use premium branded inks, and colours are independently verified to last between 100 and 200 years.
Delivery & returns
We print everything to order so delivery times may vary but all unframed prints are despatched within 2-4 days via courier or recorded mail.
Due to the coronovirus pandemic and Brexit situation, current shipping times may be longer, particularly for destinations outside the UK.
Delivery to the UK is £5 for an unframed print of any size.
We will happily replace your order if everything isn’t 100% perfect.