An Action Between USS "United States" and HMS "Macedonian," 1812. A gilt-framed oil on canvas showing the action on 25 October 1812 between the British frigate "Macedonian" and the American 44-gun frigate "United States." The two ships are shown in action. The "Macedonian" is on the left, shown starboard quarter view with its fore and main topmasts shot away. The "United States" is on the right, shown port quarter view in the act of striking. The sails of both ships are full of shot holes. A number of figures are depicted on the decks and crow's nests of both ships. Signed "Thos. Birch" (lower right).