Artwork

The "Vrijheijt," a Man-of-War and the "Hazewind," a Merchantman for Spain

The "Vrijheijt," a Man-of-War and the "Hazewind," a Merchantman for Spain is an ink print by the Baroque artist Nooms, called Zeeman, Reinier. It dates from 1653 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This print, created around 1653 by Reinier Nooms, depicts two 17th-century Dutch ships on turbulent water.

About this work

Overview

This print, created around 1653 by Reinier Nooms, depicts two 17th-century Dutch ships on turbulent water. The work is an etching with drypoint on laid paper, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing maritime scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows the 'Vrijheijt,' a warship, and the 'Hazewind,' a merchant vessel bound for Spain. The detailed rendering of the ships and their surroundings reflects Nooms' expertise as a maritime painter and provides insight into 17th-century Dutch shipping.

Technique & Style

Nooms employed etching and drypoint techniques to achieve a high level of detail in the print. The scratchy texture and precise lines effectively convey the complexity of the ships and their surroundings.

History & Provenance

Nooms began producing etchings of vessels and topographical views in the 1650s, which were later used as reference material by other artists. This work is characteristic of his meticulous approach to depicting ships.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nooms, called Zeeman, Reinier

Reinier Nooms (c. 1623 – 1664), also known as Zeeman or Seeman (Dutch for "sailor"), was a Dutch maritime painter known for his highly detailed paintings and etchings of ships. From the 1650s, Nooms started producing…