The launch of the Nelson at Woolwich, 14 July 1814, by Luke Clenell.

The launch of the Nelson at Woolwich.

Repro ID: PU6097

Description: The keel of the 'Nelson' was laid in 1805, but it was not until nine years later that she was launched at Woolwich. The launching was a gala affair with the Royal family in attendance, and over 20,000 spectators. The 'Nelson' was described as being 'superb and stupendous, of immense magnitude and exciting admiration, with a figurehead of our brave and ever lamented hero Nelson, supported by the flame and Britannia, with the motto England expects every man to do his duty’.

Creator: Luke Clennell (artist), George Cooke (engraver), William Bernard (engraver), J. Hogart (publisher)

Date: 1814

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London