FLEET REVIEW, 1935: THE HEAVY SQUADRON, HOME FLEET, STEAMS PAST HM THE KING

(MP108). Frank Watson Wood (1862-1953). Watercolour signed and dated 1936 and inscribed beneath with ships’ names.

FLEET REVIEW, 1935: THE HEAVY SQUADRON, HOME FLEET

25 copies worlwide

Standard sizes: 29.5 x 8.5 ins (74.9 x 21.6 cms) approx.

£160-195

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On conclusion of the Jubilee Fleet Review units of the Home and Mediterranean Fleets steamed past HM King George V who was embarked in the Royal Yacht VICTORIA & ALBERT (Rear Admiral D B N North CB CSI CMG CVO ADC, Rear Admiral Royal Yachts).

This watercolour painting by the eminent marine painter of his time, Frank Watson Wood (who subsequently accompanied George VI and Queen Elizabeth on their tour of the USA and Canada in the summer of 1939) shows the Heavy Squadron, Home Fleet, from left to right: HMS NELSON (Captain AU Willis DSO RN) flagship of Admiral The Earl of Cork and Orrery GCVO, KCB, Commander-in-Chief Home Fleet; HMS RODNEY (Captain W N Custance RN); HMS BARHAM (Captain R J R Scott AM RN) flagship of Rear Admiral M K Horton CB DSO, Rear Admiral 2nd Battle Squadron; HMS VALIANT (Captain A H Taylor OBE RN); and coming into line from astern HMS HOOD (Captain F T B Tower OBE RN) flagship of Rear Admiral S R Bailey CB CBE DSO, Commanding Battle Cruiser Squadron; HMS RENOWN (Captain H R Sawbridge OBE RN); and HMS COURAGEOUS.