A nearly 250-year-old oil painting has unveiled fascinating insights into the maritime history of the Isle of Man after being acquired by Manx National Heritage. The portrait, which depicts Major Paul Crebbin at the start of his distinguished military career, had remained in the same family's possession for more than 200 years before joining the island's national collection.
The artwork was painted by Arthur Davis around 1780 and shows Crebbin, believed to be just 17 years old at the time, to commemorate his entry into the marine corps, which later became the Royal Marines. According to Matthew Richardson, art and social history curator at Manx National Heritage, the painting represents much more than a single portrait, serving as evidence of "a much wider tradition of seafaring" among the Manx people during this era.
Paul Crebbin came from humble beginnings as the son of a clergyman from Santon on the Isle of Man. Despite his modest background, Richardson explained that "through his own merit, his own achievements, his own bravery, he rose quite high to the rank of major." Crebbin's military service spanned some of the most significant conflicts of his time, including the American War of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars. Tragically, after surviving numerous dangerous sea battles throughout his career, Major Crebbin met his end in 1819 when his ship sank in a storm while he was returning home to visit his family.
The commissioning of such portraits served multiple purposes during the 18th century. The oil painting would have marked Crebbin's formal entry into the marines, functioning as both a celebration of this milestone and a keepsake for his family, who would likely not see him for extended periods during his service. While Richardson noted that portraits like this were "probably pretty common" at the time, he emphasized that "only a handful have come to us today over the ravages of time as they get lost or destroyed." The Royal Marines Museum has described Major Crebbin's portrait as "extremely rare," adding to its historical significance.
The painting provides valuable insights into a pivotal period in Manx history when the island's relationship with naval service was evolving. Richardson explained that the artwork documents not just "one man's career path, but he is indicative of a much wider tradition of seafaring in this era among Manx people." During this time, the Royal Navy was undergoing rapid expansion due to the American War of Independence, creating new opportunities for young men from maritime communities like the Isle of Man.
Historically, Manx people with strong seafaring traditions had often been pressed into Royal Navy service against their will. However, Major Crebbin's era marked a significant shift in perspective. Richardson noted that during this period, there was "a change in outlook where young men would see it as a career." The financial incentives were substantial, as sailors could earn shares from captured enemy vessels, which would "become a prize of war [and] would be worth a lot of money."
The broader historical context makes this period particularly significant for understanding the Isle of Man's role in global events. Richardson described it as "a dramatic time in history where the groundwork of the modern world is being established," adding that "the Isle of Man played a crucial part in that." Contemporary newspapers from the era indicated the extent of Manx involvement in naval affairs, with reports suggesting that every vessel in the Royal Navy had a Manxman on board.
The portrait has undergone professional conservation work, including cleaning and retouching to restore it to its original condition, with funding provided by the Manx Lottery Trust. Visitors can currently view the painting in the Temporary Exhibition Gallery at the Manx Museum. Starting in spring, it will be relocated to the Mann at War Gallery, where it will be displayed alongside uniforms from the historic battles of Trafalgar and Waterloo, providing additional context for Crebbin's military service.
Richardson concluded that the acquisition represents more than just adding another artifact to the collection. "It is a powerful and inspiring addition to the national collection, not only capturing the image of a young Manxman at the start of a distinguished military career, but also connecting us to history through his own words," he said, referring to one of Crebbin's surviving letters that describes some of his wartime experiences. The painting stands as a testament to both individual courage and the broader maritime heritage that shaped the Isle of Man's connection to world events during a transformative period in history.
