This is a large fine early 18^th century oil on canvas depicting an English Man O’ War firing ‘The Morning Gun’ at anchor alongside two other ships of the line. This 400 year old painting is a rare work by the important early English marine painter, John Cook (act. 1720-1750). The painting dates to around 1720 and is signed J. Cook Fecit; ‘fecit’ being the archaic Latin suffix used by artists up until 18^th century, and literally meaning ‘he made it’.

John Cook’s work is often confused with that of the foremost marine painter of the early 18^th century, Peter Monamy. Cook is best known for his maritime scenes of English warships in the Mediterranean, frequently off Alexandria.

Dimensions: (framed) 115cm x 84cm (45¼” x 33¼”)

Dimensions: (canvas only) 101cm x 71cm (39¾” x 28”)

Medium: Oil on canvas.

Provenance: Important Fine UK collection.

Presentation: 20^th century neoclassical giltwood frame.