The Defeat of the Spanish at Gibraltar by a Dutch Fleet under the Command of Admiral Jacob van Heemskerck, 25 April 1607 1639

"The Defeat of the Spanish at Gibraltar by a Dutch Fleet under the Command of Admiral Jacob van Heemskerck, 25 April 1607" is a 1639 oil painting by Adam Willaerts depicting the naval battle that took place near Gibraltar in 1607. The painting, now housed at the Rijksmuseum, showcases Willaerts' mastery of marine painting, capturing the tumultuous scene of the Dutch fleet engaging the Spanish. Smoke billows from cannons, and ships maneuver with precision and force. Willaerts' meticulous detail and dynamic composition contribute to the sense of intensity and drama present in the scene. The battle between the Dutch and Spanish, a pivotal moment in maritime history, served as inspiration for this piece, highlighting the triumph of the Dutch navy.