Sir Edward Hughes, K.B., Vice Admiral of the Blue Squadron of His Majesty's Fleet
Engraver John Jones British
After Sir Joshua Reynolds British
Sitter Admiral Sir Edward Hughes British
Not on view
This full-length portrait is based on a painting by Reynolds (1786-87, National Maritime Museum) that represents Edward Hughes. Standing on a seashore, he holds a letter from George III that appoints him commander-in-chief of the British East Indies fleet. In 1783 a new vice admiral's dress uniform had been introduced distinguished by two rows of lace on the cuffs (this detail lasted only until 1787) and the admiral's cuffs here reflect that standard. Hughes also wears the ribbon and star of the Order of the Bath and his flag ship The Superb appears in the background.
