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The Death of Major Peirson, 6 January 1781

Image credit: Tate

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This picture celebrates the British defence of Jersey against French invasion in 1781 and also pays tribute to a young Major, Francis Peirson, who lost his life in the process. Originally a part of France, the island of Jersey had been in the possession of the English since 1066. On the night of 5–6 January 1781 a small army of French soldiers landed on the island and marched on the capital, St Helier. They captured the Governor, Moses Corbet, and forced him to sign a document of surrender. However, the British garrison and the Jersey militia launched a counter-attack, led by Major Peirson, during the course of which Peirson was killed by a French sniper. Almost immediately, Peirson's black servant, Pompey, turned on the sniper and shot him dead. A battle ensued in Royal Square and the French were defeated.

Tate Britain

London

Title

The Death of Major Peirson, 6 January 1781

Date

1783

Medium

Oil on canvas

Measurements

H 251.5 x W 365.8 cm

Accession number

N00733

Acquisition method

Purchased 1864

Work type

Painting

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Tate Britain

Millbank, London, Greater London SW1P 4RG England

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