Artwork

Harbor with a Large Tower (Le Port de mer à la grosse tour)

Harbor with a Large Tower (Le Port de mer à la grosse tour), by Claude Lorrain, ink, 1641
Harbor with a Large Tower (Le Port de mer à la grosse tour), by Claude Lorrain, ink, 1641

Harbor with a Large Tower (Le Port de mer à la grosse tour) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Claude Lorrain. It dates from 1641 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Claude Lorrain's 'Harbor with a Large Tower' is an etching on laid paper, created around 1641. It is a representative work of the Baroque era, showcasing the artist's skill in landscape depiction.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a serene coastal harbor scene, featuring a prominent tower that dominates the composition. The tranquil atmosphere is enhanced by the artist's use of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and drawing the viewer's eye to the tower and harbor.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, a technique that allows for intricate detail and tonal variation, the work demonstrates Lorrain's ability to balance naturalistic representation with classical references, characteristic of his style.

History & Provenance

The etching is now part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, a testament to its enduring significance in the art historical canon.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Claude Lorrain

Artist

Claude Lorrain

Claude Lorrain (French: ; born Claude Gellée , called le Lorrain in French; traditionally just Claude in English; c.

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