Gezigt van 't Fransch Fregat La Félicité, Kapt. Denel, ter Hoogte van 's Gravezand op Strand gejaagd, door 't Engelsch Fregat The Richmond, Kapt. Elphinston / Prospect of the French Frigat la Félicité (...) / Vuë de la Frégate Françoise la Félicité (...)

About this artwork

verzamelaarsmerk, verso, gestempeld: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

This etching by Paulus Constantijn la Fargue captures a dramatic naval encounter from the Seven Years’ War. Dated 1761, the print depicts the French frigate *La Félicité*, under Captain Denel, driven aground near ’s-Gravezand by the British frigate *The Richmond*, commanded by Captain Elphinston. Rendered in both Dutch and French titles, the work reflects the widespread European interest in such maritime clashes, which shaped colonial power during the mid-eighteenth century. La Fargue, a Dutch artist active in The Hague, specialized in detailed topographical and event-based prints. His choice of etching allowed for precise line work that conveys the tension of the moment—the listing French vessel, churning seas, and distant shoreline—while making the image reproducible for a broad audience hungry for news of the conflict. Beyond its documentary value, the print highlights how art served as both record and commentary. Small enough to circulate easily (roughly 20 by 30 centimeters), it brought the realities of international warfare into private homes, blending factual reporting with the dramatic appeal of maritime scenes that fascinated viewers of the period.

About the Artist

Paulus Constantijn la Fargue

Considered to be the most talented member of the La Fargue family of artists, he specialized in painting, drawing, and etching landscapes and townscapes with topographical details. Comment on works: Landscapes; Topography