(Zara 1842–1905 Graz)
"Battaglia per l'indipendenza d'America" titled, signed, illegible dated L. de Rubelli, Galizia 18... N. 211, oil on canvas, 42,5 x 60 cm, framed
(frame damaged)

The Austrian painter Ludwig Rubelli von Sturmfest (1841-1905) became an important figure in the Graz landscape painting scene. He began painting after his discharge from the Imperial and Royal Navy in 1863, which would strongly influence his choice of motifs. His oeuvre includes numerous depictions of war and naval scenes. Due to his experience of ships and warfare, his works are among the most accurate depictions of naval operations. This skill endeared him to both nobles and merchant mariners and some of his works later became imperial property.

The present lot is a version of the battles of the American Revolution (1775-1783) that took place in North America, the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean. Rubelli took up these motifs again and again. After the Seven Years’ War between the British Empire and France, Britain tried to limit the financial damage and demanded a tax from its colonies, which were themselves impoverished by the war. This led to tensions and inevitably war between the British Empire and its thirteen colonies, later supported by France and Spain, turning a civil war into an international conflict. Ultimately, the conflict led to the breakaway of the colonies from Britain through the Declaration of Independence of 4 July 1776 and the Treaty of Paris of 3 September 1783.
This illustration is believed to be of a naval battle under the command of the American navigator John Paul Jones (1747-1792). From aboard a sinking ship, he was able to force an opposing British frigate to surrender. His courage and success led him to become a naval and national hero of the USA.

We are grateful to Dr Wladimir Aichelburg for his scientific assistance.