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The Death of Nelson, 21 October 1805

Photo credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

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The scene in the cockpit on the 'Victory' as Nelson lay dying during the Battle of Trafalgar. Nelson reclines, covered by a sheet, leaving only his head, left shoulder and arm visible; his uniform coat discarded at his feet. His portrait was painted from a posthumous sketch of the body that Devis made upon the 'Victory's return to England in December 1805. Devis made life sketches of those attending Nelson at his death and incorporated them into this death scene. In the centre at the back, the 'Victory's' Captain, Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, stands over Nelson, his right hand on the ship's knee against which Nelson reclines. His lower limbs are masked by the surgeon, William Beatty, and Nelson's steward, William Chevailler. The ship's chaplain, Dr Alexander Scott rubs Nelson's chest.

National Maritime Museum

London

Title

The Death of Nelson, 21 October 1805

Date

1807

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 195.6 x W 261.6 cm

Accession number

BHC2894

Acquisition method

National Maritime Museum (Greenwich Hospital Collection)

Work type

Painting

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National Maritime Museum

Romney Road, Greenwich, London, Greater London SE10 9NF England

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