ADMIRAL SIR [WILLIAM] SIDNEY SMITH

an autograph letter to Sir Marc Isambard Brunel, in French, Paris, 12 May 1834, in which Smith thanks Brunel for his effigy by David d'Angers and encloses his own Everybody says it looks older than me, but every day it more closely resembles me on account of my burning candle at both ends; two pages -- 10 x 8in. (25 x 20cm.); together with a repoussé bronze plaque of Smith signed and dated David18[34?], within a carved wooden frame -- 9½in. (24cm.) diam.

(2)

Sidney Smith (1764-1840) was overshadowed by Nelson but was a highly decorated naval officer who saw service at some of the key moments of the Napoleonic Wars (including the Battles of Cape St. Vincent, Chesapeake and Saintes, and was at the Siege of Acre) and whose acts of heroism and exploits in France inspired several 'Hornblower' stories. Following the peace in 1815 (where he attended the Congress of Vienna) he took up the anti-Slavery cause, especially against the Barberry Pirates then operating out of North African waters raiding European coastal settlements He became MP for Rochester and also reached the rank of Admiral in July 1821 while living in France whither he had removed in about 1815 (to avoid debts) and where he spent the rest of his life. It is not known how he met Brunel, the father of his more significant son, but he was a fine engineer in his own right and began the celebrated tunnel under the Thames, finished by IKB. He corresponded with Davy and Farraday and was instrumental in helping Babbage with his calculating machine. He was elected a fellow of the Royal Society in 1814 and knighted in 1841.

Condition Report

letter stained and damaged with loss at the fore margin

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.