Lot 277: Richard Paton (1717-1791) "THE REPULSE 38 GUNS, IN

Richard Paton (1717-1791) "THE REPULSE 38 GUNS, IN THE SOLENT OFF CALSHOT" formerly signed and inscribed "The 'Repulse' 38 Gns built as the French frigate 'Bellone' captured 1759 in the Solent off Calshot" oil on canvas 60 x 90.5cms; 23 3/4 x 35 3/4in.
NB This is a portrait of the second Royal Naval warship to bear the name HMS Repulse. She was a 5th Rate frigate originally built by the French and named "Bellone" until she was captured on 21st February 1759 by HMS Vestal. In British service, she helped to seize another French vessel, destroyed three more and, as part of Admiral Sir George Rodney's squadron, took part in the capture of Martinique in 172. Although decommissioned and put in reserve until 1774, she was recommissioned in 1776 and sailed for the Americas where she foundered just off Bermuda in December 1776. Sold with a photograph showing the original signature and inscription on the reverse now covered by a rear lining. See illustration