The Cutting-Out of the French Corvette 'La Chevrette'

The cutting-out of 'La Chevrette' was a once-famous incident in the wars against Napoleon. Britain feared invasion and the capture of this heavily armed corvette was a tremendous boost to British morale. How could the French invade if they couldn't even protect their own ships in their own harbours? The action itself was heroic, bloody and strategically unnecessary. Four British frigates were watching the enemy fleet at the entrance to Brest Harbour, Brittany.One night their boats, manned by volunteers and with oars muffled, set out to board 'La Chevrette' but the French were armed and waiting. After a fierce battle the smaller British force captured the ship, her captain was killed in one-to-one combat and 'La Chevrette' taken in triumph to Plymouth. This painting was commissioned by an engraver who toured it around the country. Philip James de Loutherbourg had made his reputation as an artist in France before settling in London. He was also a noted scene painter for the theatre.