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Clustered at the centre of this complex composition, which is spilling forward towards the spectator, Spanish ships are locked in combat with corsair galleys on the open sea. A Spanish ship is engaging several of the corsair galleys which posed a threat to merchant and other shipping. The large ship in the background is flying a Spanish flag and the red flag flying from the stern probably indicates that she is preparing to attack. The vessel in the foreground has been hit and is sinking. A sense of turmoil is prevalent as the half-clad rowing crew, possibly slaves, attempt to escape drowning. Her men are shown climbing the rigging, in a desperate attempt to reach safety, and several of the crew have been trampled underfoot. The figures, in the foreground, have been observed closely. Small boats are shown going to their rescue. Gun smoke is billowing over the scene. The water itself is calm. The colours are bright and, in the warm light, all detail is shown in great clarity.
Vroom was the eldest of four children of the famous Haarlem marine painter Hendrick Cornelisz Vroom. He trained with his father and specialised in marine painting before moving to landscapes in later years. He fell out with his family in the early 1630s but was nevertheless held in high esteem by his contemporaries.
Title
Spanish Men-of-War Engaging Barbary Corsairs
Date
1615
Medium
oil on panel
Measurements
H 61 x W 103 cm
Accession number
BHC0799
Work type
Painting