Schepen op stormachtige zee 1840 - 1843

Editor: This is "Ships at Sea in Stormy Weather," an engraving by Franciscus Bernardus Waanders, created sometime between 1840 and 1843. The turbulent water and darkened sky certainly evoke a sense of drama. I'm curious, what strikes you most about the composition of this piece? Curator: Immediately, I’m drawn to the interplay of light and shadow. Observe how the engraver modulates tone to depict the roiling sea. The deep blacks of the troughs contrast starkly with the highlights catching the crests of the waves and sails. Note how this deliberate manipulation of tonal values amplifies the dramatic tension. Consider also the spatial arrangement, and how it contributes to our reading. Editor: I see what you mean! The dark, looming clouds positioned above the fragile vessels definitely adds to the feeling of vulnerability. Does the artist's choice of engraving as a medium contribute to the overall effect in any way? Curator: Absolutely. Engraving allows for a high degree of precision and detail, resulting in fine lines and subtle gradations of tone. Waanders uses these characteristics of engraving to masterful effect to create texture to imply not just vision but the other senses, such as feeling the salty spray on your face, in what is ostensibly a 2D image. Editor: I never considered the texture before. This really gives me a new appreciation for the engraving process. Thank you for pointing that out. Curator: My pleasure. The medium itself is part of the message; the choice is not incidental. It has given me a lot to consider as well.