This superbly composed picture rates amongst Abraham Hulk's finest work. Within the canvas he portrays the vast ocean in complimentary balance to the confines of the ships, large and small. Humans working onboard and on the water-darkened shore beneath a varied blue and full-bodied sky complete the painting.
Dutch ships, shore and artistic style: it is no wonder many believe the English born Hulk was a Dutch artist. His outstanding use of color, light and shadow to achieve the fluctuation of atmosphere in this work highlights the exceptional quality of detail, such as the fisherfolk's drag net and baskets, and the residence built upon the estuary lowland.
The crisp renderings of the fishing vessels and sailing barque at anchor are hulk's subjects which speak of the importance of maritime industry to 19th century Europeans, and the artist in particular. Hulk showed this talent early, being one of extremely few foreigners admitted to the Amsterdam academy. His work is a tribute to the undeniable skills of a sea painter.
