Lot 1054 Dα

Coastal landscapes and maritime scenes experienced a wave of popularity in 17th century Holland due to the country's status as a naval power. Simon de Vlieger was one of the most talented proponents of this genre. He lived and worked in Rotterdam, Delft, Amsterdam, and Weesp, where many other maritime painters were active. This constant exchange of ideas and styles led to the formation of the classic Dutch marine painting as we know it today.
This sophisticated composition depicts several sailing ships on the left, including two warships at anchor, and a more rural scene on the right. A broad panoramic view over the water stretching out into the distance separates the two halves. This bi-lateral composition and the carefully layered perspective are both typical of Vlieger's works, as is the “extreme attention to detail in the draughtsmanship, which remains integrated within an atmospherically nuanced colour palette” (Jan Kelch).