Brian Sanders (British, B. 1937) "Bonhomme Richard" Original oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands History's Greatest Fighting Ships sheetlet issued December 1, 1998. On September 23, 1770, the Bonhomme Richard, under the command of John Paul Jones, encountered a British merchant fleet convoyed by the frigate HMS Serapis. After a memorable battle lasting well into the night,the Bonhomme Richard was severely damaged. Asked if he was ready to surrender, Jones' historic reply was, "Sir, I have not yet begun to fight." Image Size: 10.5 x 13 in. Overall Size: 14.5 x 17 in. Unframed. (B16143)