Brig "Mercury" Attacked by Two Turkish Ships | Ivan Aivazovsky | 1892

Ivan Aivazovsky’s Brig “Mercury” Attacked by Two Turkish Ships (1892) portrays one of the most celebrated actions of the Russo-Turkish War of 1828–1829. The event took place on 14 May 1829 (26 May, New Style) in the Black Sea, when the small Russian brig Merkury (Mercury), commanded by Captain-Lieutenant Alexander Kazarsky, encountered a far superior Ottoman force. Carrying only 18 guns, the Mercury found herself pursued by two massive Ottoman ships of the line — the Selimiye, mounting around 110 guns, and the Real Bey (or Real-Bey), armed with approximately 74 guns. Vastly outmatched in both firepower and size, the Russian crew nevertheless chose to fight rather than surrender. Using exceptional seamanship, Kazarsky skilfully manoeuvred the brig to avoid the enemy’s crushing broadsides while directing concentrated fire against the Turkish ships’ spars, rigging, and sails. For several hours the Mercury endured intense bombardment, suffering damage and casualties but continuing the engagement with remarkable discipline. By crippling parts of the Ottoman ships’ rigging and exploiting the brig’s greater agility, Mercury eventually escaped what should have been certain destruction. The action became an enduring symbol of courage and tactical brilliance in Russian naval history, celebrated as a triumph of determination over overwhelming odds. Aivazovsky’s painting captures the ferocity of the encounter — smoke-filled air, straining sails, and heaving seas heighten the drama of a battle in which a lone brig defied two powerful warships and secured immortal fame. Print: A premium quality heavyweight (200gsm) fine art print material with a smooth, clean finish. This museum quality paper is extremely consistent and works perfectly with large, full colour graphics or illustrations. The matte finish emphasizes different highlights and tones in the source artworks; helping to create stunning works of art. - All prints include a small 0.25 inch white border to ensure space for framing. Our Eco Credentials Include: FSC approved or sustainably sourced paper Printed using water based inks Local fulfilment reduces carbon emissions Contains no plastic Sizes: 12’’ x 8’’ Inches = 30.5 cm x 20.3 cm 18’’ x 12’’ Inches = 45.7 cm x 30.5 cm 24" x 16" Inches = 61 cm x 40.6 cm