Sombrero Passage, 1805 RCIN 735119.b

A view of the attack on H.M. frigate Blanche by a squadron of French ships in the Sombrero Passage, 19 July 1805. Napoleonic Wars (1803-15).
Ships shownː HMS Blanche (36). French Shipsː La Tonage (44), Le Departement (20), des Landes (20), La Torche (18), La Faune (16)
Zachary Mudge (1770-1852; later, Admiral Mudge) had been promoted Post Captain on 15 November 1800 and was given command of the 32-gun frigate Blanche in September 1802. The action depicted in this view shows the Blanche, which was carrying dispatches from Jamaica to Lord Nelson at Barbados, being attacked by a small French squadron. The Blanche was sunk and Mudge was subsequently brought before court martial for having made an insufficient attempt to defend himself but was acquitted, being complimented on his gallant conduct.
The 'Sombero Passage' named in the title of this view may refer to an area of sea near Sombrero Island, Anguilla (18°36'00"N 63°26'00"W).
The lettering of the title is faintly engraved, and the upper-case letters are engraved in outline, suggesting the possibility that this example may be a proof impression.
George Andrews (active 1794-1813) (publisher) [bottom centre, below title:] Published Sept.r 1. 1806, by G. Andrews, N.o 7, Charing Cross.
Zachary Mudge (1770-1852) (dedicatee)

George III catalogue entry: Naval Engagement View of the gallant defence made by H.M. Frigate the Blanche, Captain Z. Mudge, in the Sombrero Passage on the 19.th of July 1805, against a French Squadron commanded by M. Baudin: by G. Andrews, 1806.