about 1655-1660 A Southern Harbour Scene by Nicolaes Berchem
This oil painting was completed only seven years after the end of an 80-year Dutch revolution against Spanish oppression. Yes, eighty years. During this time, Spanish troops had slaughtered entire towns. Amazingly, during this same period, while fighting for their basic survival, the Dutch had also become the most important trading center in northern Europe.
By the time this painting was completed, the Dutch Republic was the most economically wealthy and scientifically advanced of all European nations. That wealth, and its backbone built on ships, is well displayed in this painting. It has the typical Baroque depth of field, carefully orchestrated multiple scenes, and balletic poses wrapped in lush fabrics. But, unlike the Baroque of Catholic Europe, the focus here is not a church saint or government figure.
This is a relatively democratic Baroque. Although the woman at center appears to be the wealthiest figure, she goes unnoticed by those around her. They are wrapped up in the ordinary activities of caring for a baby, selling vegetables, & telling sailors' tales. Even the god on the fountain has his back turned, away from the self-importance of any one person & out toward the sea and its capitalist riches.
about 1655-1660 A Southern Harbour Scene by Nicolaes Berchem
This oil painting was completed only seven years after the end of an 80-year Dutch revolution against Spanish oppression. Yes, eighty years. During this time, Spanish troops had slaughtered entire towns. Amazingly, during this same period, while fighting for their basic survival, the Dutch had also become the most important trading center in northern Europe.
By the time this painting was completed, the Dutch Republic was the most economically wealthy and scientifically advanced of all European nations. That wealth, and its backbone built on ships, is well displayed in this painting. It has the typical Baroque depth of field, carefully orchestrated multiple scenes, and balletic poses wrapped in lush fabrics. But, unlike the Baroque of Catholic Europe, the focus here is not a church saint or government figure.
This is a relatively democratic Baroque. Although the woman at center appears to be the wealthiest figure, she goes unnoticed by those around her. They are wrapped up in the ordinary activities of caring for a baby, selling vegetables, & telling sailors' tales. Even the god on the fountain has his back turned, away from the self-importance of any one person & out toward the sea and its capitalist riches.