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1845 (ca.), J.M.W. Turner, Sunrise with Sea Monsters -- Tate Britain (London)

From the museum label: This is one of Turner's most mysterious unfinished paintings. The shapes of two or more giant fish can be seen against a yellow sunrise. Dark brown hatched lines to the left of the fish may suggest netting or fish scales. Turner would have read of sightings and stories of mysterious marine creatures by sailors engaged in Britain's multiplying naval business interests. Despite its bright tonality, this work may relate to Turner's frequent depictions of the sea as dark place.

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Uploaded on June 15, 2025
Taken on June 15, 2025