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The Burning of Payta, November 1741, mid 18th century (oil on canvas)
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The Burning of Payta, November 1741, mid 18th century (oil on canvas)
7337643 The Burning of Payta, November 1741, mid 18th century (oil on canvas) by Scott, Samuel (c.1702-72); 98.5x138 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: Samuel Scott
In 1740, while Britain was at war with Spain, Commodore George Anson led a squadron of eight ships on a mission to disrupt or capture Spain's Pacific possessions. Anson's expedition reached Juan Fernandez after much hardship, chiefly through scurvy from which many men died. Returning to England in 1744 by way of China he thus completed a circumnavigation of the world. During this trip, on 13 November 1741 Commodore Anson made a surprise attack on the Spanish town of Payta, on the coast of what is now Peru. Although the attack was successful, the Governor escaped and with him the chance of a ransom was lost. Anson threatened to burn down the town if he did not give himself up, but this was refused, and Payta was consequently set on fire on 15 November. This resulted in plunder of £32,000 and six vessels sunk in the bay.
The painting by Samuel Scott was specially painted for Lord Anson after his return from his voyage and is based on an eye witness drawing by the 'Centurion's first lieutenant, Piercy Brett. Just to left of centre the 'Centurion' is shown at anchor together with the 'Tryal' one of the other five prizes to her left, and surrounded by wrecks of sunken vessels. To the right two more of the prizes are running down from Payta which is burning fiercely. The fifth prize is at anchor and a sunken vessel is in the extreme right foreground. The painting was originally owned by Anson, and probably commissioned by him and is from the Caird Collection.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38288004
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
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This stunning oil on canvas painting by Samuel Scott depicts the dramatic scene of The Burning of Payta in November 1741 during the mid-18th century. The artwork, now housed at the National Maritime Museum in London, captures a pivotal moment in history when Commodore George Anson led a daring attack on the Spanish town of Payta as part of Britain's war efforts against Spain.
Anson's expedition faced numerous challenges, including scurvy which claimed many lives, but ultimately succeeded in plundering £32,000 and sinking six vessels in the bay. The painting is based on an eyewitness drawing by Piercy Brett, the 'Centurion's first lieutenant who was present during the attack.
The detailed composition shows the 'Centurion' anchored alongside other captured ships while Payta burns fiercely in the background. This masterpiece was specially commissioned for Lord Anson after his return from his voyage around the world and remains a powerful reminder of this historic event.
Samuel Scott's skillful portrayal of The Burning of Payta not only commemorates Anson's successful mission but also serves as a testament to bravery and perseverance in times of conflict. It stands as a timeless tribute to those who fought valiantly for their country and left an indelible mark on history.
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