The Right Honourable Lord Nelson (1758-1805), Rear Admiral of the Blue
London, 1798
Mezzotint on laid handmade paper
520 x 368 mm
Nelson is shown in the uniform of a Rear Admiral of the British Navy. His chest is decorated with the Star and Ribbon of the Bath and the Naval Gold Medal, awarded for his victory at the Battle of St Vincent (14 February 1797). Nelson only sat for Abbott once but there are over forty versions of the painting with variations in pose and costume. Prints of notable naval figures, like Nelson, were purchased across Britain, spreading the fashion for military inspired clothing throughout the country.
Purchased 2005 (No.2005.8)