Jan van de Cappelle (1624-1679), Follower of - Havengezicht

This painting, a serene harbour view, was made by a follower of the seventeenth-century master Jan van de Cappelle. Van de Cappelle, known for his refined maritime scenes, managed to capture a unique atmosphere of peace and balance in his works as an autodidact. His oeuvre is characterised by tranquil water features, subtle use of light and controlled, refined brushwork. This influence is unmistakably present in this work, in which the calm of the water and the layering of the sky are central.

Composition and technique

The painting shows a group of ships, still in a calm sea, captured in a soft, diffuse light that reflects on the water's surface. The artist uses a well-considered composition in which the diagonal formed by the sails introduces a dynamic that contrasts with the horizontal serenity of the scene. The cloud formation in the background is masterfully worked out, with subtle shades of blue and gray providing a layered and atmospheric contrast.

The technique of oil on panel contributes to the clarity and precision of the work, which is typical of maritime masters of the Dutch Golden Age. The painter has applied a delicate brushwork, especially in the rendering of the ship's hulls and the detailed rendering of the sails, which appear slightly transparent and suggest movement. The reflections in the water are skillfully rendered and enhance the depth of the painting.

Art historical context and influences

Jan van de Cappelle was not only a talented painter, but also an influential art collector, with a collection of over 200 paintings and more than 7,000 drawings. His work is often associated with other seventeenth-century masters such as Simon de Vlieger and Willem van de Velde the Elder, who also specialized in maritime scenes. Influences from these artists are clearly visible in this painting, especially in the atmospheric rendering and the precise maritime details.

Van de Cappelle's influence extended to later generations of painters, such as the eighteenth-century followers who remained committed to the maritime tradition. This work, though made by a later master, still reflects the techniques and aesthetic principles that made Van de Cappelle famous.

Signature and authenticity

At the bottom left of the painting, a monogram is visible, consisting of the letters ‘JVC’. Although this monogram refers to Jan van de Cappelle, it probably serves as a decorative tribute and not as an actual signature of the master himself. In the eighteenth century, it became common for followers to imitate the style and signature of influential artists, which adds to the complexity of the attribution of such works.

Condition and restoration

The painting is in good condition, with only minor paint losses that hardly affect the whole. The original paint layer shows minimal crazing, which is appropriate for the age of the work. The scene itself remains bright and vibrant, with no significant discoloration or restorations that would affect the artistic integrity.

Conclusion and collection value

This work is a wonderful example of the enduring influence of Jan van de Cappelle and the eighteenth-century followers who continued his maritime tradition. For collectors of maritime art and lovers of the Dutch Golden Age, this painting offers a valuable addition, both for its historical reference and for its artistic quality. The atmospheric composition, the well-considered use of colour and the refined technique make it an impressive work that embodies the characteristic tranquility and grandeur of Dutch maritime painting.

The work "Harbor View" is in a gilded gold-bronze frame with plaster ornaments

Total dimensions: 45x55cm
Panel dimensions: 32x40cm

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