Lieve Pietersz. Verschuier

The 17th-century painter Lieve Verschuier is known for his atmospheric marines and unusual lighting effects. His most distinctive compositions depict dramatic scenes at sea, emphasising the ambient conditions. Arnold Houbraken suggested that a trip to Italy in 1655 may have inspired him to paint these effects.¹ In this painting he combines glowing suffused light with a clouded sky, creating an interesting contrast between the luminous warm light of the setting sun in the late afternoon and the dark stormy clouds in the upper half of the composition.

Active in Rotterdam, Verschuier painted many different maritime subjects. In this painting the artist’s interest in naval activities is in evidence. In the lower left corner two smaller vessels are docking at a jetty; perhaps they are fishermen unloading their catch. A wijdschip in the centre of the painting is stacked with trade goods. Multiple merchants on board the ship are recognisable by their fine clothes. An impressive man-of-war with fluttering banners is in full sail behind the wijdschip. The ship is lit from behind, highlighting its central position in the composition, as well as its power at sea.

¹ A. Houbraken, De Groote Schouburgh..., vol. III, Amsterdam 1721, p. 229.