Miraculous draught of fishes c. 18th century

Editor: This is Thomas Major's "Miraculous Draught of Fishes." The composition feels so balanced between the activity on the boat and the figure on the shore. What strikes you about how it's put together? Curator: The artist's use of line is compelling. Notice how the lines of the sails and rigging contrast with the curves of the waves and figures. The artist uses hatching to show the shading of forms. How do these contrasting textures affect your reading of the image? Editor: It creates a sense of depth and makes the scene more dynamic. I can almost feel the sea spray. Curator: Precisely. It's through this interplay of texture and form that the drama of the scene unfolds. I find the balance between the human effort in the boat and the divine figure so striking. Editor: I hadn't noticed that before, but I see it now. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure.