. 'Watson and the Shark ' is based upon an attack that took place in Havana harbour in 1749 . Brook Watson as a 14-year-old orphan serving as a crew member on his uncle's trading ship. While swimming alone he suffered two attacks by a single shark . On it's first attack , the shark bit off a chunk of flesh from Watson's right leg below the calf ; on the second attack , it removed his foot at the ankle . The crew of a small boat , which had been waiting to escort their captain to shore , fought off the shark and rescued Watson . His leg was amputated below the knee , but he went on to live a full life , including a term as Lord Mayor of London .
About Me
- Girodet
- " Every day we should hear at least one good song , read one good poem , see one exquisite picture , and , if possible , speak a few sensible words . " Johann Wolfgang von Goethe "
Friday 13 January 2012
' Watson and the Shark ' John Singleton Copely (American 1738-1815) Oil on canvas , circa 1778 . National Gallery of Art , Washington DC
. 'Watson and the Shark ' is based upon an attack that took place in Havana harbour in 1749 . Brook Watson as a 14-year-old orphan serving as a crew member on his uncle's trading ship. While swimming alone he suffered two attacks by a single shark . On it's first attack , the shark bit off a chunk of flesh from Watson's right leg below the calf ; on the second attack , it removed his foot at the ankle . The crew of a small boat , which had been waiting to escort their captain to shore , fought off the shark and rescued Watson . His leg was amputated below the knee , but he went on to live a full life , including a term as Lord Mayor of London .
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1 comment:
My goodness what a dramatic story and dramatic Painting when FIRST looked at the Painting I felt all was lost glad he went onto leading a fruitful life
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