Evening – A Mediterranean coastal inlet with fishermen by the shore, a fortified gate beyond

Material

Oil on canvas; 318 x 257 cm

Dating

1778

About the artist

The works of the painter Clause Joseph Vernet, born in Avignon in 1714, mostly show harbour and seafaring motifs. These motifs were in great demand in the 18th century. The special feature of the artist’s style, however, is the panorama-like depiction, in which the horizon is low and the sky is very wide. This gives the paintings a very realistic effect, which is further enhanced by the intensity of the colours and the great appreciation of light and shade.

Claude Joseph Vernet’s career was encouraged at a very early age by his father, who was himself known as a decorative painter. He sent his son to experienced painters and enabled him to travel to the capitals of artistic creation at that time. After learning in Rome, among other places, he was summoned to the French king’s court to work in the service of the state. Vernet was given the task of depicting the naval power of France in his works. The artist had the ambition to produce his works in a particularly truthful manner. Thus, scenes of daily life as well as the work of the workers can often be found in the paintings. It is even said that Claude Joseph Vernet once had himself tied to the mast of a ship during a terrible storm in order to better feel the adventurous and dangerous existence at sea.