A rare Ralph Wood figure of Admiral Van Tromp, c.1780-90, the Dutch naval admiral reaching for the

A rare Ralph Wood figure of Admiral Van Tromp, c.1780-90, the Dutch naval admiral reaching for the sword resting on his left hip, wearing a grey tunic edged in yellow with traces of gilt, raised on a tall square base applied with three Classical portrait roundels, small chips to the base, 26cm.

Purchased from Jonathan Horne Antiques, London, 11th October 1995.

Cf. Pat Halfpenny, English Earthenware Figures 1740-1840, p.63 for an example from the Henry Weldon Collection.

Cornelis Maartenszoon Tromp (1629-91) was famous for his insubordination and fighting spirit, but was popular with his men, despite regularly leading them into danger. Away from the battle, boredom led him to drink.