Generals and others in the British Army who fought in the Peninsula War, discussing the battle of Vittoria. Wood engraving after F. Bromley after J.P. Knight, ca. 1847.

"The heroes of the Peninsula. We were present at the "private view" of this picture at the gallery of Messrs. H. Graves and Co., Pall Mall, on Wednesday last, painted by Mr. J. P. Knight (the newly elected Royal Academician). It represents a discussion which lately took place before the Duke of Wellington in the library of the "United Service Club," on the subject of the "Battle of Vittoria," upon a dispute previously arising between Sir George Murray and Sir Thomas Bradford. In the centre stands "The Duke" in martial attitude pointing with his left hand across to the table, at which are seated the venerable Lord Lynedoch, grasping that trusty sword which its noble owner was ever ready to wield towards England's glory, and Lord Combermere, as Colonel of the 2nd Life Guards, evidently calling the attention of Sir George Murray, who is speaking, upon a certain position of the army, which Sir Edward Paget is tracing on a chart of the battle. Every eye appears to be most intent, waiting the decision of "The Hero" whose opinions have been and ever will be esteemed the highest military authority. Animation, throughout the picture, is everywhere visible, and the greatest praise is due to Mr. Knight for the excellent composition and general arrangement of the figures. The artistic skill displayed in the management of lights and shadows, the mellowed toning of the scarlet uniforms, and above all, that which alone would make the picture invaluable, the life-like portraits it contains, render this a highly valuable historical picture. No less than thirty-one of the most celebrated generals of the Peninsular War, are here assembled, nor must we omit to mention the correctness with which Mr. Knight has given the varied uniforms, the honours, stars, and all the military detail, without annoying the eye by their dazzling brilliancy, or deadening their effect by too broad shadowing. We understand that this magnificent work will be immediately placed in the hands of the engraver, and when completed will form a companion to 'The Heroes of Waterloo.'"--The London polytechnic magazine, loc. cit.

The key identifies 31 people, supplemented by two portraits in oil paintings within the painting (Sir John Moore and King George III)

London (31 Ely PLace, E.C.) : James Sheldon, [1847?]

1 print : wood engraving ; sheet 19.8 x 36.7 cm

Key plate to the engraving of "The heroes of the Peninsula." From the original picture by J.P. Knight, Esq., R.A., engraved by Frederick Bromley, Esq. ...

The London polytechnic magazine, and journal of science, literature, and the fine arts, ed. by T. Stone. January-June, 1844, p. 252

Wellcome Collection 2885019i