An English sloop engaging a Dutch Man of war.

An English sloop engaging a Dutch Man of war. © National Maritime Museum, London

Description: The growth in London’s maritime trade during the 18th century brought more and more ships to the port. With the ships came sailors and inevitably there was an increase in the supply of prostitutes to meet the growing demand from both British and foreign seafarers.

Creator: Unknown

Date: 4 June 1781

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London