English School, 1779 Portrait miniature of William Sidney Smith (1764-1840), later Admiral Sir Sidney Smith, at the age of fifteen wearing the uniform of a midshipman inscribed with the identity of the sitter and the date '1779' below the portrait; the backing of the frame bearing the card of the sitter's younger brother, John Spencer Smith, FRS (1769-1845) watercolour on ivory, oval 5.5cm Provenance: Elle Shushan, Philadelphia, from whom acquired in 2016 by the late Barry Lock (1934-2021) Known for his strategic brilliance, daring exploits, and charismatic leadership, William Sidney Smith (1764-1840) played a pivotal role in several important naval battles during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Born in Westminster into a naval family with connections to the Pitt family, Smith joined the Royal Navy in 1777 at the age of thirteen and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a lieutenant at the age of eighteen. He served with distinction in the American Revolutionary War, the French Revolutionary Wars, and the Napoleonic Wars, earning a reputation as a brilliant tactician and commander. In 1799, as a Captain of the HMS Tigre, he led an audacious attack on the French fleet at the Battle of the Nile, which resulted in a resounding victory for the British. After distinguishing himself in the Mediterranean, Smith returned to England in 1801, becoming a Member of Parliament for Rochester and the lover of Caroline of Brunswick, Princess of Wales. He returned to active duty in 1805 and sailed for Portugal. In 1807, during the Siege of Porto, Portugal, he successfully defended the city against a superior French force, earning him the title of 'Conqueror of Porto.' He also played a crucial role in the successful defence of Cádiz, Spain, against French forces during the Peninsular War. Smith was often entrusted with diplomatic missions by the British government, attending the Congress of Vienna and playing a key role in fostering alliances with various European powers to counter French expansionist ambitions. In 1815, he received a knighthood for his work with Wellington in securing the peace and guaranteeing that Louis XVIII could safely return to Paris. After his illustrious naval career, Smith retired from active service in 1816 and was later promoted to the rank of Admiral. He settled in Paris, where he lived a retired life, writing memoirs and assisting with British diplomatic efforts. Smith died in Paris in 1840, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain's most distinguished naval commanders. This item is offered for sale in accordance with the Ivory Act 2018 and has been assigned an exemption certificate, Ref. No. W9251N2V.