Auguste Louis Rossel, Action of 18 October 1782 between the 74-gun Scipion and the 90-gun HMS London (Combat du Scipion contre le London)

Musée national de la Marine de Toulon

Date: 1788
Technique: Oil on canvas, 112 x 163 cm

The Action of 18 October 1782 was a minor naval engagement of the Anglo-French War, in which the French 74-gun ship of the line Scipion, accompanied by a frigate, was chased by two Royal Navy ships of the line, HMS London and Torbay. Outmanoeuvring her larger opponents, Scipion obtained a favourable position that allowed her to rake HMS London, causing severe damage and escaping.

The British resumed the chase, and Scipion struck a rock in Samaná Bay, becoming a total loss.

Source 1
Source 2