[H.M.S. Malabar]. Two original pen-and-ink menus executed by an unidentified ‘Private of Marines’, for Montagu

Vice-Admiral Sir William Augustus Montagu (1785-1852). – Anonymous ‘Private of Marines’ (artist/calligrapher).

Two original pen-and-ink menus, employing calligraphy, heraldry (the Montagu arms) and decorative elements, executed by an unidentified ‘Private of Marines’, for Admiral Montagu, whilst he was in command of H.M.S. Malabar (74-gun 3rd-rate ship-of-the-line), both with note at the foot ‘H.M.S. Malabar’ and ‘H.M.S. Malabar 1837’.

The first menu (8 ½ x 5 1/2in; 216 x 140mm), on laid paper: the bill of fare is headed by Giblet Soup and lists a total of 18 dishes or side dishes. Tipped onto an early backing sheet.

The second menu (9 5/8 x 5 7/8in; 245 x 149mm), on wove paper, with the Montagu arms at the head, the bill of fare starts with Soupe de la Reine and lists only 17 dishes or side dishes. The verso has some contemporary scribbles. Tipped onto an early backing sheet, the backing sheet includes the early pencil note that the menu was 'done by a Private of Marines'. (Small tear to upper margin of menu).

I suppose, if H.M.S. ‘Malabar’ was in port (Portugal or the Mediterranean), then these ‘feasts’ might actually have taken place, but, if at sea, then surely they were ‘wishful thinking’? In either case, they are both beautifully presented showing a sense of design and lay out that is a match for many a contemporary writing master!