The Battle of Dunkirk by Willem van de Velde I

The Battle of Dunkirk 1659

drawing, paper, ink

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drawing

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baroque

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pencil sketch

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landscape

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study drawing

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charcoal drawing

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paper

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ink

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history-painting

"The Battle of Dunkirk" is a 1659 drawing by Dutch painter Willem van de Velde I, known for his depictions of maritime scenes. This detailed work shows a fleet of Dutch warships in battle, captured with meticulous accuracy and a sense of realism. The artist, a master of the genre, creates a dynamic composition, portraying the chaotic yet controlled nature of naval warfare. The work is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, offering viewers a glimpse into the history of naval warfare and the technical prowess of Dutch maritime art.

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rijksmuseum's Profile Picture
rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

In 1639 Maerten Harpertsz Tromp prevented the Spanish fleet from leaving the harbour at Dunkirk with a blockade of twelve ships. Van de Velde has depicted most of the Dutch vessels with their prows pointing towards the enemy armada. With a remarkable eye for detail, he rendered in pen the ships’ counters or transoms – the stern carvings from which the individual vessels can be identified.

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