The Battle of Blenheim

John Wootton (1682 - 1764)

National Army Museum

1704 - 1764

This fascinating picture represents the final phase of the battle. Marlborough and Prince Eugene had taken the French commanders by surprise at Blenheim (shown in the centre of the picture). Although the French position was strongly fortified, Marlborough opened a vigorous attack, and, after heavy fighting, was able to launch a general assault. Despite severe losses, he gained one of the greatest victories in English military history. Marlborough himself is seen on the right, sword in hand on a bay charger, surrounded by his staff, while behind him the defeated French Marshal, Tallard, is being driven off the battlefield in Marlborough's coach.

• Medium: oil on canvas
• Dimensions: 147 x 218 cm
• Art Fund Grant: £7500 ( Total: £20,000)
• ArtFunded in: 1979
• Vendor: Leggatt's

Provenance

John, 1st Duke of Marlborough; Sir Robert harvey; by descent to Sir Robert Harvy, Bt; sold Christie's, November 1975.

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