HMS Aimable off Antigua, 1795 - Roy Cross RSMA

Original painting in oil on board.

Image Size: 20 x 14 inches, signed lower right.

HMS Aimable was launched in 1776 as an Alcmène-class 26-gun frigate of the French Navy named ‘L’Aimable’. She took part in various successful actions during the American War of Independence leading to the scuttling or capture of several Royal Navy ships.

Following the Battle of the Saintes on 12 April 1782, she was captured at the subsequent engagement at the Mona Passage (19th April 1782) by HMS Magnificent of Rear-Admiral Sir Samuel Hood’s squadron. Later recommissioned as HMS Aimable, she served with distinction in various theatres, capturing a number of French privateers. She took many prizes under various captains in many sea but here she is seen in 1795 in Caribbean waters with which she is perhaps best associated, off the island of Antigua.

 Her surgeon's journal for the period 5th September 1797 to 4th September 1798, a period of service in the West Indies, survives in the National Archives at Kew.

A larger photograph is available on request.