En Sø står ind over Dækket på et skib 1870 - 1877

This small print captures a dramatic scene on the deck of a ship, its maker unknown. It was created using a process of engraving, where an image is incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Look closely, and you can see how the density of the engraved lines creates different shades of grey, conveying the chaos of the storm. The fine, precise lines speak to the engraver’s skill. Notice how the diagonal lines evoke the relentless rain and the turbulent sea, while the closely packed lines give the impression of dark shadows. Prints like this were often made for mass distribution, a relatively inexpensive way to circulate images and narratives. The scene speaks volumes about labor, risk, and survival in an era when maritime trade was vital. The image reminds us that even seemingly delicate artworks are deeply connected to the world of work and the realities of life at sea.