Artwork
Sea at Night

Sea at Night is an oil painting by Anton Melbye. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Sea at Night is an 1865 oil painting by Danish artist Anton Melbye, characterized by its nighttime maritime scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting centers on a large ship surrounded by smaller boats at sea under a dark, cloudy sky with a subtle hint of sunset or sunrise, evoking a sense of maritime activity and atmospheric depth.
Technique & Style
Melbye employed a range of colors and bold, expressive brushstrokes to create depth and a dynamic, energetic atmosphere, contrasting deep sea blues/greens with warm sky tones.
History & Provenance
The work is part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection, reflecting Melbye's specialization in seascapes, a focus shared with his painter brothers Vilhelm and Fritz.
Artist & collection
Artist
Daniel Herman Anton Melbye (13 February 1818 – 10 January 1875) was a Danish painter and photographer who specialised in marine art. He was the brother of fellow painters Vilhelm and Fritz Melbye.

















