s Cutting out the Hermione - Hull Museums Collections

Cutting out the Hermione

Cutting out the Hermione depicts a famous historical incident that was painted by several artists. In 1797 the frigate Hermione of 36 guns was seized by mutineers at Puerto Rico and handed over to the Spaniards. Two years later in 1799 Captain Hamilton set out in six boats from the frigate Surprise to recapture the Hermione while she lay at anchor at Puerto Caballo. The Hermione was protected by two guard boats as well as by the shore batteries, and the attacking boats were heavily engaged. After six hours’ fighting in the middle of the night the Spanish crew was overcome and forced to surrender. Dawson’s painting was commissioned by William Millward in 1876 and was completed in just two months. It shows the artist’s mastery of light and his interest in and knowledge of maritime history. The inherent drama of the scene also betrays the influence of the painter Turner (1775-1851), whom Dawson much admired.