John Paul Jones — Engraved Naval Portrait
Paris: Esnauts et Rapilly, rue St. Jacques, circa 1780 — Frame: 9⅝ x 7 inches; sight: 8 x 5⅜ inches
 
A finely engraved and evocative portrait of John Paul Jones, depicting the commodore in a dramatic maritime setting, sword in hand amid smoke and action. Issued in Paris during the American Revolution, the composition reflects European admiration for Jones’s exploits—most notably his command of the Bonhomme Richard in the celebrated engagement with HMS Serapis.
 
Among the most effective early officers of the Continental Navy, Jones carried the conflict into British waters, achieving a victory of both strategic and symbolic consequence that secured his international reputation and reinforced Franco-American support. The image presents a composed yet resolute figure, emblematic of American naval defiance.
 
Condition: Excellent.