Artwork
Pêche du Cachalot, Cachalot Fishery

Pêche du Cachalot, Cachalot Fishery is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Friedrich von Martens. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Pêche du Cachalot, Cachalot Fishery is a print created by Friedrich von Martens around 1834, combining etching, aquatint, and engraving techniques on wove paper.
Subject & Meaning
The print captures a chaotic whale hunt scene, with a breaching whale surrounded by small boats and harpoon-wielding men. Dark clouds and flying birds fill the sky, conveying tension and intensity.
Technique & Style
The use of dark tones and expressive mark-making contributes to the dramatic atmosphere, characteristic of the Romanticism movement.
History & Provenance
The print is held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.











