The Downs, England, Ships. Isaac Commelin, Zee Schlach in Duyns door Marten Harpers Tromp den an October Anno 1638, 1660 (circa). Hand Color. The Battle of the Downs ended on October 31, 1639, during the Eighty Years' War. Determined to resupply their forces in Flanders despite the French cutting off their normal land route, a Spanish fleet of over 75 ships made its way north through the English channel. The Spanish ships were soon spotted by Lieutenant-Admiral Maarten Tromp, who was commanding a small squadron of Dutch ships. After sending back for reinforcements, Tromp initiated battle on September 27 with the large Spanish opposition, and damaged some of the most powerful Spanish ships, hurting Spanish morale. Over the next month, the Dutch fleet succeeded in defeating the Spanish, thereby shifting the balance of naval power. This splendid panoramic view shows the battle in full force, with several castles dotting the English coastline, including Dover and Walmer Castle. The title incorrectly notes the date of this important naval battle as 1638. Two sheets joined.

A dark impression, issued folding on sheets with a jester watermark and trimmed to the neatline at top and right. There is some printer's ink residue, a few spots of foxing, and several short edge tears that have been archivally repaired. Grade: B+

10.8 x 25.3 in