Jan Porcellis - Dutch Vessels in a Strong Breeze

A number of vessels are shown moving briskly through the waves in a strong breeze. The boat, on the left, is probably a kaag, designed for use on inland waterways, with the leeboard visible. It flies the Dutch flag. A group of figures sits in the stern and another group in the bow including a figure dressed in red. Kaags were often used as ferries in the Zuider Zee which conveyed cargo and people to and from seagoing ships. The two focal kaags, filled with passengers, are very finely executed and are testament to Porcellis’ skill as a draughtsman. Their sails are visibly filled by the gust of wind which blows from right to left across the painting. At the same time, this strong breeze beats the water into dark, robust waves. The crests of the waves are blanched and spumescent. By contrast, the sky appears static. Awkwardly painted purplish clouds are shown swirling into the composition from the far right. On the far left another small craft sails on the same course as the kaag. In the central distance a strip of land is shown with buildings and a church on the skyline. These landmarks are difficult to identify. The painting was probably painted in Antwerp and may depict the waterways surrounding the city.