17th Century
Dutch
oil on panel
15 1/2 x 21 5/8 in./framed 11 x 17 1/8 in./unframed (39.3 x 54.9 cm./framed 27.9 x 43.5 cm./unframed cm)
54.19.2
Not on view
Marine views reflect the Dutch people’s pride in their naval and mercantile accomplishments and associated prosperity. This calm harbor view includes a school of porpoises at lower left; the Dutch considered these animals to be signs of good fortune. This painting’s limited palette and subtle rendering of light, water, and weather reflect the close observation of nature of the people who depended on it for their living and those who made their wealth from their labor.
Not signed.
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Collection
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.