Popham 355.
The largest independent etching made by Cotman and the rarest of all of his printed works; only one other impression of Column at Yarmouth to the Memory of Lord Nelson is recorded to have been offered for sale in the last thirty years. Published by the artist himself in 1817, this semi-imaginary image depicts the column which was being constructed to the south of Yarmouth in memory of England’s greatest naval hero, Lord Horatio Nelson. As commander of the British fleet, Nelson had defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets in 1805, in the decisive naval battle of Trafalgar, losing his own life in the engagement. The Battle of Trafalgar was of great significance to the town of Yarmouth, one of the busiest ports on the eastern coast of England, and the largest shipping town near Cotman’s home.

Cotman had already created an etched depiction of the celebrations held at Yarmouth when Napoleon abdicated as Emperor in 1814 and this image expanded upon this celebratory theme, far surpassing the earlier etching in both scale and imaginary qualities. Here, Cotman has added an imaginary scene beyond the column, of the great English warships with sails full and flags unfurled, standing proud and mighty among the drama of the skies.

This plate was designed soon after the first stones of the column which it depicts had been laid, but long prior to its completion. The Nelson Column, which now stands to the south of Yarmouth, was designed by William Wilkins. Cotman’s etching shows the initial design for the monument, which was to be topped by a sailing vessel with oars extended and was intended to rise to the height of 140 feet. However, this design was changed during construction and the finished pillar is surmounted by a drum on which Victories support a gilt statue of Britannia.