A Calm at Sea
1650 - 1707
Medium
oil on canvas
Dimensions
h 36cm × w 43.5cm × d 7cm
Classification
painting
Museum
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
About this artwork
Windstilte. Een Statenjacht met een grote vaandel en andere kleinere en grotere schepen in kalm water vlak bij land. Een volle sloep komt bij het jacht langszij. Op de voorgrond enkele mannen in een vissersbootje.
Art Historical Context
Willem van de Vel the Younger (1633–1707), a master of marine painting during the Golden Age captures a serene moment in *A Calm at Sea*. This oil on canvas, measuring 36 × 43.5 cm, depicts a windless day on calm waters near the. At center is a stately States yacht flying a large flag, surrounded by smaller and larger vessels. A full rowing boat approaches alongside, while in the foreground, fishermen in a small boat add a touch of everyday life to the tranquil scene. Van de Velde's meticulous style shines through his realistic portrayal of ships' rigging, subtle water reflections, and atmosp...