These images from ‘Sketchbook of a cruise on the Foudroyant 1800-1806’ featuring British ships of the Mediterranean fleet in 1800 might provide a small clue about Victory’s 1805 appearance:
Plate 8. Lipari Islands with the Bull dog, Captn Dacres:
http://brbl-zoom.library.yale.edu/viewer/1467291Plate 15. Guillaume Tell in Syracusa harbour } from the Foudroyant:
http://brbl-zoom.library.yale.edu/viewer/1467380Plate 28. Marsa Scirocco harbour at Malta, from the Foudroyant:
http://brbl-zoom.library.yale.edu/viewer/1467395The colour scheme is certainly a whiter shade of ochre – though Cornelia Knight, the artist, seems to prefer a delicate palette overall. The chequerboard effect is evident – though it’s difficult to tell whether the gunports are open or closed. Those masts are quite arresting. Almost a bumble bee (waspish) hoop effect. Perhaps Cornelia exaggerated the size of the iron bands, but don’t they look wonderful?
The presence of the Guillaume Tell in Syracuse harbour ( plate 15 ) exactly a month after her capture by Foudroyant – must have been a stunning sight. Given that Guillaume Tell had arrived there on 3 April - and Nelson, the Hamiltons and Cornelia pitched up on 30th - the painters seem to have made short work of giving her the British Mediterranean fleet look. The reaction of crew and passengers on board Foudroyant as she came into view must have been terrific.
If we’re divvying out football team colours to fund Victory’s future, please can I propose claret and blue. The made in Lancashire variety. For (touch wood) 3 May.