Featured is a Antique Copper & Oak Bust of Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson for the Centenary of his death and the Battle of Trafalgar, presented by The British and Foreign Sailors' Society.
The British and Foreign Sailors' Society was formed in 1833 in London, England. It was a merger of the Bethel Union Society (1818) and other societies that formed to preach to seamen.
The Society's aim was the "moral and religious improvement" of seamen. Eventually, it expanded its activities, and became increasingly involved in practical assistance to seafarers. It is now known as the British and International Sailors' Society.
The HMS Victory was best known for the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. She was commissioned in 1778. It is the oldest commissioned warship in the world; and the only surviving warship that was in the Revolutionary War, French Revolution and Napoleonic wars.
The Battle of Trafalgar led to the eventual collapse of the French Empire and saw the downfall of Napoleon in 1815. Lord Nelson died on October 21, 1805 during the Battle of Trafalgar.
The Centenary of Trafalgar was celebrated in 1905 however little was done to the ship other than a cosmetic make over.
Both the bust and the pedestal are crafted from materials taken from the HMS Victory.
The copper bust shows Nelson in full uniform, below him reads:
NELSON
This Bust Contains
Victory Copper
For Nelson Centenary
Oct. 12 1905
Presented By
British & Foreign Sailors' Society
E.R. VII
The copper bust sits on an oak pedestal (from the Victory) with a sterling silver plaque which reads:
"England Expects That every Man Will Do His Duty"
October 21st 1805 - October 21st 1906
This Bust Of Nelson Standing On Victory Oak
& Containing Copper Taken From His Historic Ship
Is Presented By The British And Foreign Sailors' Society
Patron: Vice Admiral H.R.H. The Prince Of Wales K.G.
To The City Of Cape Town
On The 101st Anniversary Of The Death Of Nelson
"Thank God I Have Done My Duty"
E.R. VII
The bottom of the oak pedestal is covered in purple velvet. The Copper Bust slightly wiggles on the pedestal, though it is still very secure. There is slight surface wear. The copper and oak both have a beautiful patina.Overall in excellent condition considering its age.
A Truly Amazing Historic Find For Collectors. Feel free to e-mail us if you have any questions. Enjoy.
