Who painted The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander?

The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander was painted by Nooms, called Zeeman, Reinier in 1653.

Where can I see The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander?

The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander?

The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander

Nooms, called Zeeman, Reinier , 1653

The "Zwarte Beer" (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander 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.

About this work

Overview

The 'Zwarte Beer' (Black Bear), a Dutch Greenlander, is an etching with drypoint on laid paper created by Reinier Nooms, known as Zeeman, circa 1653. This work exemplifies Nooms' expertise in maritime scenes, characteristic of his detailed and refined etchings from the 1650s.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a dynamic scene dominated by a large, multi-masted ship in motion, set against a rocky coastline with turbulent waves and a cloud-filled sky. The image conveys a sense of energy, activity, and the spirit of exploration.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching with drypoint, the piece showcases Nooms' attention to detail, evident in the ship's rigging, billowing sails, and active crew. The drypoint technique adds expressive lines, enhancing the overall sense of movement and texture.

History & Provenance

Created around 1653 by Reinier Nooms (Zeeman), a former sailor and renowned Dutch maritime painter. His etchings from this period were widely referenced by other artists, indicating their influence and accuracy.

Context

Part of a series of refined etchings by Nooms from the 1650s, 'The Zwarte Beer' reflects the Dutch Golden Age's fascination with maritime themes, commerce, and exploration.

Legacy

As one of Nooms' detailed maritime etchings, 'The Zwarte Beer' contributed to the artist's legacy as a reference point for other artists, highlighting the importance of maritime themes in 17th-century Dutch art.

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…