The first launch, 3 November 1857.

The first launch, 3 November 1857. © National Maritime Museum, London

Repro ID: A4557

Description: John Scott Russell (on the left) and Isambard Brunel (second from right) during the launch of the 'Great Eastern'. Although Russell was a famous naval architect and shipbuilder, Brunel demanded complete control of the project. This was to prove a constant source of conflict. Russell favoured the delegation of operational decisions to his senior staff, but Brunel frequently intervened in almost everything that took place.

Creator: Robert Howlett

Date: 3 November 1857