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A Small Vessel in Light Airs, and Another Ashore

Jan van de Cappelle (1626–1679)

The National Gallery, London

A Small Vessel in Light Airs, and Another Ashore

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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In this scene of day-to-day life on the muddy shores of the North Sea, Jan van de Cappelle has depicted a virtually windless day. We see a smalschip (a traditional transport vessel), its helmsman doing his best to catch what wind he can by setting the sails out on both sides. But they hang almost limp and the boat makes only the faintest of wakes in the glassy water. A rowing boat carrying two passengers seems to be about to intercept it -- perhaps they are being taken out to a bigger vessel anchored in deeper water.Meanwhile the crewman on the beached boat (a kaag) seems to be pouring something into a basket held up by his colleague. It looks as though they have been fishing for shellfish and are landing their catch. It's an image of calm and plenty, but there's also a reminder of the destructive power of the sea: the timbers of a wreck protrude from the mud.

The National Gallery, London

London

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Title

A Small Vessel in Light Airs, and Another Ashore

Date

probably 1650-60

Medium

Oil on canvas

Measurements

H 34.8 x W 48.1 cm

Accession number

NG865

Acquisition method

Bought, 1871

Work type

Painting

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Normally on display at

The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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Artist or maker

Jan van de Cappelle

1626–1679

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