This early work from J.E. Buttersworth’s British period is a strong example of the developing style that would elevate the artist to one of the most sought after of all 19th century marine painters. Clearly evident is the trademark Buttersworth sky with the parting clouds providing the light source to illuminate his vessels.

This narrative shows three royal navy warships, a large third rate to the left, an armed cutter off her bow and a flush deck frigate or sixth rate, all flying the blue peter from their mizzen and comissioning pennants at the main. They appear to have just made rendezvous for messages or new orders with the small cutter on the right wearing the red ensign and rendezvous pennant.

As with all of Buttersworth’s paintings, the detail of the vessels is exceptional. In this work they are shown working through a short choppy sea, stylized differently than those painted by the artist’s father and teacher, Thomas Buttersworth, showing the younger Buttersworth beginning to feel out his own unique power and style.