About this sheet
Original antique 19th-century hand-colored marine engraving depicting the French naval commander Chevalier de Saint-Pol engaging a Dutch squadron at sea.
The engraving was made by British engraver William Skelton (1763–1848) after a painting by the celebrated French marine artist Baron Théodore Gudin (1802–1880).
The original French title reads:
“Combat du Chevalier de St. Pol contre une escadre hollandaise”
The atmospheric composition shows numerous sailing warships beneath a dramatic dark sky, illuminated by a low sunset or dawn. Subtle original hand coloring highlights the sails, flags and vessels.
Marc-Antoine de Saint-Pol Hécourt (1665–1705), known as the Chevalier de Saint-Pol, was a French naval officer and privateer during the reign of Louis XIV. Associated with the famous privateer Jean Bart, he participated in French naval operations against England and the Dutch Republic.
Théodore Gudin was one of France’s foremost 19th-century marine painters and became an official Peintre de la Marine in 1830. He was renowned for dramatic naval battles, shipwrecks and historical maritime scenes.
The inscription “Galerie Historique de Versailles” connects the work with the great historical collections at Versailles, where Gudin’s paintings formed part of the visual celebration of French naval and military history.
Artist: Baron Théodore Gudin (1802–1880)
Engraver: William Skelton (1763–1848)
Title: Combat du Chevalier de St. Pol contre une escadre hollandaise
Technique: Original antique engraving with hand coloring
Subject: French-Dutch naval engagement
Period depicted: Reign of Louis XIV
Publication: Galerie Historique de Versailles
Origin: France
Date: circa 1840
Style: Romantic / Maritime
Condition:
Good antique condition with overall age-related toning and scattered foxing and spotting. More noticeable foxing is present in the margins, particularly toward the right side. Minor marks and handling traces are consistent with age. The engraved image remains strong and atmospheric, with attractive original hand coloring. Please study the photographs carefully as they form part of the condition description.
Please note: This is an original antique 19th-century engraving, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.
Keywords: Chevalier de Saint-Pol, Théodore Gudin, William Skelton, French Navy, Dutch Navy, naval battle, French Dutch naval battle, Louis XIV, Jean Bart, sailing ships, warships, maritime history, antique maritime print, naval engraving, hand-colored engraving, Versailles, Romantic marine art, 19th century, original antique print
