Saint Paul Shipwrecked on the Island of Malta

1634

Willem Basse

Associated Names
Willem Basse

Artist, Dutch, 1613 or 1614 - 1672

The image is a monochrome etching of a coastal scene from an elevated vantage point. Some crumbling structures resembling a castle, with arches and towers, are on an elevated pathway overlooking a busy scene. A large group of people is near the shore, engaging in various activities. The ocean sweeps toward the right with a partially submerged ship and figures clinging to it or swimming. In the background, the horizon is flat, with distant figures enhancing depth. Rich, dark lines contrast against the paper's light tone, emphasizing the landscape's textures and the sea's motion.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    David K. E. Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 11.3 x 15.9 cm (4 7/16 x 6 1/4 in.)
    sheet: 12.1 x 17.5 cm (4 3/4 x 6 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.70.12

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 60

  • Volume Title

    Der Zee-Vaert Lof (Praise of Sea-Faring)

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Van Hattum Collection; purchased 1989 by NGA library (transferred to permanent collection in 1994).

Associated Names

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberge

Inscriptions

by later hand, lower center verso in graphite: 12.-

Wikidata ID

Q75125723

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