Visvangst op zee 1582 - 1633

Philips Galle’s ‘Visvangst op zee’ at the Rijksmuseum, is a detailed engraving that captures a busy fishing scene. Galle masterfully uses line and composition to create a lively, almost chaotic, marine environment. The image is structured around the interplay of curved lines which define the ships and the undulating waves. Galle’s choice of hatching and cross-hatching builds depth and texture, particularly in rendering the sea. The composition, with its multiple boats and figures, pulls the viewer into the scene, creating a dynamic sense of movement. There’s a semiotic complexity at play here. The act of fishing is a direct engagement with nature. Galle’s work reflects a burgeoning interest in naturalism, capturing the daily activities and material conditions of life. The Latin text further enriches the work, adding layers of meaning. The artwork reflects the intersection of art and life during Galle’s time, revealing how artistic practice engaged with broader cultural and intellectual currents.