Artwork
Ships on a Calm Sea
Ships on a Calm Sea is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Willem van de Velde the Younger. It dates from 1658 and is held in the collection of the Mauritshuis.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1658, *Ships on a Calm Sea* is an oil painting by Dutch marine specialist Willem van de Velde the Younger. Executed during the height of the Dutch Golden Age, the work presents a tranquil harbor scene populated by several tall, multi‑mast vessels under a bright sky. The composition is part of the Mauritshuis collection in The Hague.
Subject & Meaning
The canvas captures a bustling port where sailing ships glide over glassy water, their white canvases billowing gently and their flags adding splashes of colour. Small rowing boats with visible crew drift nearby, emphasizing the everyday activity of maritime trade and navigation that underpinned 17th‑century Dutch prosperity.
Technique & Style
Van de Velde employs a meticulous handling of light, rendering the reflection of sunlight on sails and water with a smooth, almost photographic clarity. Atmospheric perspective is achieved by diminishing the size and detail of vessels receding into the background, reinforcing a sense of depth and distance within the calm seascape.
History & Provenance
Born into a family of marine painters—his father Willem van de Velde the Elder was also a noted seascape artist—van de Velde the Younger continued the tradition throughout the 1600s. The painting entered the Mauritshuis collection, where it remains on display as an example of Dutch maritime art from the period.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Willem van de Velde the Younger
Willem van de Velde the Younger (18 December 1633 (baptised) – 6 April 1707) was a Dutch painter who specialised in marine art.
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The skirmish of Michiel Adriaensz de Ruyter against the duke of York, commanding the 'Royal Prince'during the Battle of Solebay, 7 June 1672: episode from the Third Anglo-Dutch War (1672-74)
Captured English Ships after the Four Days’ Battle
Ships off the coast
