Artwork
Schiffe in ruhiger See
Schiffe in ruhiger See is an oil painting by Simon de Vlieger. It dates from 1637 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.
About this work
Overview
Simon de Vlieger, a Dutch artist active in the early 17th century, painted *Schiffe in ruhiger See* circa 1637. Executed in oil on canvas, the work shows a tranquil harbor scene dominated by a multi‑masted vessel whose reflection ripples gently on the water. The painting is presently held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a large ship anchored in calm seas, its sails and rigging rendered with clear definition against a muted sky. A smaller boat lies in the foreground, occupied by a solitary figure, suggesting everyday activity within a peaceful maritime setting.
Technique & Style
De Vlieger employs a restrained palette of grays and blues, using subtle contrasts of light and shadow to model the hull and sails. The delicate handling of atmospheric perspective and the smooth surface treatment are characteristic of his marine paintings, emphasizing calmness over drama.
History & Provenance
Created around 1637, the painting reflects de Vlieger’s mature period, when he was renowned for seascapes and harbor views. It entered the Kunsthaus Zürich’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains part of the museum’s Dutch Baroque collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Simon de Vlieger (c. 1601 – buried 13 March 1653) was a Dutch painter, draughtsman and designer of tapestries, etchings, stained glass windows. While he is mainly known for his marine paintings, he also painted beach…
