Attributed Nicholas Pocock (1740-1821)

Attributed Nicholas Pocock (1740-1821)
The Capture of the French Frigate La Tribune by The Unicorn, 8 June 1796
Oil on canvas
49 x 71.9cm; 19¼ x 28¼in

Together with Francis Chesham (1749-1806) after Nicholas Pocock; The Capture of the French Frigate La Tribune by The Unicorn, 8 June 1796; Etching and aquatint with hand-colouring; 41.7 x 61cm; 16½ x 24in (image) (2)

The 32-gun frigate HMS Unicorn, in company with HMS Santa Margarita, were cruising west of the Scilly Isles when, on 8^th June 1796, they sighted, chased and brought to action two larger French frigates, the Tribune and the Tamise, both mounting 36-guns. Two fierce duels ensued, with the Tamise surrendering to HMS Santa Margarita first. Determined not to suffer the same fate, the Tribune fought all the harder for many hours and it was not until 10.30pm that night that she finally ‘struck her colours’ and surrendered to the Unicorn.