Stop and Search, 1770 - Bob Grimson

By the late 18th Century punitive import tax had brought Britain to a point where smuggling had taken on almost industrial proportions with whole communities involved to support the 'Gentlemen of the coast'.

Most smuggling was done by fishing vessels or large well-armed luggers but it was by no means unknown for small merchant vessels to subsidise their earnings with some contraband.

Here the Bristol Channel-based Revenue cutter Dancer has intercepted a small Brigantine and signaled her to heave to,perhaps with a shot across her bow to encourage her. She is now lying hove-to with her square sails backed while the Dancer prepares to pass astern of her before bringing up and launching the boat which is being readied on deck.

Original oil on canvas signed lower right, framed.

Canvas size 24 x 36 inches
Frame size: approx 29 x 41 inches

A larger image is available on request.