Artwork
A shipwreck off a rocky coast
A shipwreck off a rocky coast is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Philip James de Loutherbourg. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
About this work
Overview
A shipwreck off a rocky coast is a 1760 oil painting by Philip James de Loutherbourg, a French-born British artist.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a dramatic shipwreck scene, with a broken ship tossed by turbulent waves, people clinging to rocks, and others struggling to stay afloat. Dark, ominous clouds fill the sky, creating a sense of chaos and turmoil.
Technique & Style
De Loutherbourg employed chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create depth. The palette includes shades of brown and grey for the rocks and sea, and deep blue for the sky, contributing to the overall atmosphere.
Context
De Loutherbourg was known for large naval works and theatrical set designs, including the mechanical theatre Eidophusikon, reflecting his influence from the Rococo movement.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Philip James de Loutherbourg, RA (born Philippe Jacques de Loutherbourg; 31 October 1740 – 11 March 1812) was a French-born British painter who became known for his large naval works, his elaborate set designs for…
