Black Seas L’Orient

Description

Orient was of the Océan-class of ships. These were a series of 118-gun three-decker ships of the line of the French Navy, designed by engineer Jacques-Noël Sané. Launched on July 20, 1791, she was originally named the Dauphin Royal, but having come into service during a time of great political upheaval, she was promptly renamed. As a tribute to a political movement, she was dubbed the Sans-Culotte. She retained this name for three years before it also became contentious.

Battle of Genoa (14^th March 1795)

Prior to receiving her final name, the Sans Culotte served as the flagship of Rear Admiral Martin at the Battle of Genoa, serving at the rear of the engagement. Though she exchanged fire with British third-rate vessels, she lost contact with the fleet at nightfall, taking no further part in the action. The French fleet, though having lost two ships, managed to break from their pursuers mid-afternoon the next day, and were re-joined by the