"Eau Forte: A Journey through the Military Adventures of Ensign Johnny Newcome" Embark on a captivating voyage as we delve into the extraordinary world of Ensign Johnny Newcome, a courageous soldier whose escapades spanned continents and epochs. Our first stop takes us to 1588, where a map of the Pacific Ocean reveals a majestic whale gracefully navigating between the American continent and Japan. This awe-inspiring sight sets the stage for an epic tale. Next, we find ourselves amidst the Battle of Salamanca, where Ensign Johnny Newcome is introduced to his regiment's esteemed Colonel by none other than Ensign himself. The handcoloured copperplate engraving by Thomas Rowlandson captures this momentous occasion with vivid detail and artistry. As our journey continues, we witness Captain Johnny Newcome presenting King Joseph Bonaparte's hat and Marshal Jean-Baptiste Jourdan's baton as war trophies to none other than the Prince Regent at Carlton House. The significance of these symbols cannot be understated – they represent triumph over adversity in times of conflict. But even heroes like Ensign Johnny Newcome face their share of challenges. We see him returning home to England on sick leave from the grueling Peninsula Campaign, depicted in another remarkable engraving by Thomas Rowlandson. His weary countenance tells tales untold yet etched deep within his soul. In Medina, Spain, dysentery strikes our valiant ensign during his ticketed journey – captured poignantly in yet another masterpiece by Rowlandson. The vulnerability juxtaposed against military might serves as a reminder that even heroes are human. The Battle of Salamanca beckons once more as Ensign Johnny Newcome partakes in his first action – charging fearlessly against the French Army while experiencing firsthand the intoxicating scent of gunpowder. Amidst this chaos lies an unsettling scene; a British soldier looting a fallen enemy, reminding us of the harsh realities of war.