1797 Set of 2 Large Aquatints, Maritime, Explosion of the 'HMS' Boyne - Military History

On offer two superb and large aquatints (with original hand color) depicting the “Explosion on, and Sinking of Her Majesty’s Ship BOYNE”  

Dimensions of each plate:
Height: 12.41 in. (31.5 cm)
Width: 20.08 in. (51 cm)

Plate 1. “View of His Majesty's Ship Boyne of 98 Guns (Vice-Admiral Sir John Jervis's flagship, in action in the West Indies in 1794) on fire at Spithead, May 1795.” Also shows ships Prince and Arethusa on the right hand side, as well as several other vessels in fore and background.  

Plate 2. “Explosion from His Majesty's Ship Boyne after having burnt to the Water's Edge, and grounded on the Horse Shoal near South Sea Castle.”  Both after T.M.Waller, the second with Mr Guest by J. W. Edy  Both Published in July 1797 by T. White wood of Portsea.  

Two scenes showing the destruction of HMS Boyne off Spithead.  

On the morning of May 1st 1795 it was observed that HMS Boyne was on fire so orders were made to assist the fleet, the whole crew were saved but the fire could not be put out. Eventually the cables anchoring the ship were burnt and she floated on the current. The greatest damage was done by the guns which were loaded and started firing at the crowd which had gathered to see the spectacle and three men were killed on HMS Queen Charlotte by rogue shot. HMS Boyne eventually blew up at 5.30pm.   Both leaves on fine thick cream paper.  Detailed condition report:  Both dusty and with minor marginal wear. Even age toning to both plates. One tiny wormhole within plate mark. Plate 1 with a small marginal tear just into plate mark restored, but not the image. This plate with 5 small holes to sky neatly retouched.  

An exceedingly rare set in overall good condition with very fine contemporary hand color.