End of Knowles' action off Havana, 1 October 1748

This painting depicts the conclusion of Rear Admiral Charles Knowles's indecisive action off Havana on 1 October 1748, one of the final naval engagements of the War of the Austrian Succession. The battle resulted in a court-martial for Knowles and several of his captains, reflecting the bitter disputes over naval tactics that plagued the Georgian navy. Scott occupied a unique position in Georgian Britain as the painter best equipped to commemorate naval victories with both artistic distinction and technical accuracy. His battle paintings were sought by officers, naval administrators, and patriotic collectors who wanted their country's sea-power documented in compelling visual form.

Scott arranges the fleet action with clear delineation of individual ships and their positions, the smoke and confusion of battle rendered with documentary precision. The careful depiction of naval signals and ship maneuvers reflects access to official accounts.