Design for the naval pillar [graphic]

"A tall pillar, supporting an allegorical design of Britannia and covered with figures and objects in high relief, stands upon a rock in a stormy sea, waves dashing against it. The square base is supported by figures of Fortitude, with a lion, her left hand on a broken pillar, and Justice, with an ostrich, her scales not balanced. Between them is inscribed: 'To Perpetuate the Destruction of the Regicide Navy of France, and the Triumph of the British Flag'. It rests on two slabs of stones inscribed with the names of admirals: (below) 'Howe', 'Parker', 'Nelson', 'St Vincent', 'Bridport'; (above) 'Duncan', 'Gardiner', 'Keith', 'Hood'. On the summit tritons blowing horns support a shell in which stands Britannia with shield and trident. In her right hand stands a tiny figure of Victory. Beside her an angry lion grasps a globe showing the British Isles and 'le Mer'. The capital of the pillar is formed by the feathers in the hats of republican soldiers who dangle from it, still holding blood-stained daggers. Other objects on the pillar are a sailor wearing wooden shoes, broken weapons and nautical instruments, a tricolour flag inscribed 'Egalité' with a broken shaft, a small decapitated figure of 'Libertas', holding up a bonnet-rouge. On the horizon (left) is a fort; above are dark clouds from which issue many flashes of lightning. ..."--British Museum online catalogue