Lot 168: William McDowell (British, 1888-1950) The Argentinian training cruiser La Argentina steaming at speed

The Argentinian training cruiser La Argentina steaming at speed
signed 'William McDowell' (lower left)
oil on canvas
59 x 91.4cm (23 1/4 x 36in).

Built by Vickers, Armstrong at Barrow-in-Furness, La Argentina was laid down in January 1936, launched in March 1937 but only completed in January 1939 due to delays with her machinery caused by Britain's pre-War re-armament programme. Displacing 6,000 tons (7,160 fully loaded), she measured 541 feet in length with a 56 foot beam and carried a main armament of 9-6in. guns. She spent her entire career as a training ship for naval cadets and remained in the service until 1974.