SOLD
 
A 19th century sailor's woolwork, or woolie, portraying HMS Princess Royal. In good condition for its age, particularly having managed to retain much of the original colour in the wools, which are sadly often faded in other examples. There are a few small holes where the wools have broken, but these do not detract from the overall decorative quality of the picture. The rigging is complete, and nice and tight. Period maple frame.
 
The HMS Princess Royal was launched at Portsmouth Dockyard in 1853. From her launch date to 1855 she was stationed in the Baltic and Black Seas, as part of the Crimean War offensive. The following years saw her on duty in the Mediterranean, East India, and China until finally being broken up in 1872.