Seascape c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Pieter Coopse's "Seascape," of indeterminate date, at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a very small watercolor, and the ships give it an almost desolate feeling. What strikes you when you look at it? Curator: Initially, the composition, defined by a horizontal orientation. Observe how Coopse organizes the ships in receding planes, creating spatial depth. Editor: Yes, and the figures in the foreground provide scale. The artist’s rendering is so skillful! Curator: Precisely. The brushstrokes demonstrate considerable technical prowess. Did you notice the restrained palette, the limited range of muted tones? Editor: I did, and it enhances that somber atmosphere that I felt so keenly. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure. Examining its formal elements illuminates the artwork.