A Midshipman's Berth in a British Frigate 1822, by Augustus Earle (1793-1838). English painter of American descent, his travelling experiences formed his subject matter. From Darwin and the Beagle by Alan Moorhead page 198-9. Midshipmen were berthed on the orlop deck. This scene shows the various activities taking place in the mess but the impression of space has been greatly exaggerated. An informal group portrait of young officers serving on board a British naval ship, this painting has its origins in Earle's first-hand experience as a travel artist. In November 1820, while travelling in South America, he sheltered in HMS Hyperion during Lord Cochrane's blockade of Callao in Lima, and left on board the same ship in December of that year.