Artwork

Fortified Harbour

Fortified Harbour, by Bonaventura Peeters, oil, 1646
Fortified Harbour, by Bonaventura Peeters, oil, 1646

Fortified Harbour is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Bonaventura Peeters. It dates from 1646 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Fortified Harbour is a 1646 oil painting by Bonaventura Peeters the Elder, a prominent Flemish marine artist of the 17th century. Characterized by meticulous detail, it exemplifies the Flemish Baroque style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a fortified harbour with a prominent castle-like structure featuring three towers and a flag, set against a cloudy grey sky. The scene includes various boats in the foreground, some occupied by people, conveying everyday maritime activity.

Technique & Style

Peeters employed his signature attention to detail, evident in the textured stone walls of the castle and the intricate sails of the boats. The dynamic depiction of crashing waves and active boat scenes showcases his ability to capture movement within a detailed composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1646, Fortified Harbour is part of Peeters' extensive marine oeuvre. The work is currently housed in the State Hermitage Museum collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bonaventura Peeters

Artist

Bonaventura Peeters

Bonaventura Peeters (I) or Bonaventura Peeters the Elder (23 July 1614 – 25 July 1652) was a Flemish painter, draughtsman and etcher.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.