Animated seascape with ships in rough weather, attributed to Ludolf Backhuysen, late 17th century

Animated seascape with ships in rough weather, oil on wood panel.
Dimensions: 59 × 80 cm; with frame: 74 × 95 cm.
Attributed to Ludolf Backhuysen, circa 1650.

The composition presents a vigorous maritime scene, characteristic of the Dutch tradition of the late 17th century. Several sailing vessels confront a turbulent sea beneath a heavy, tormented sky. In the foreground, a more modest craft, occupied by a few figures, struggles against dark waves breaking into foam. In the background, larger ships, their sails partially reefed, stand out against a dramatic light filtering through the clouds.

The painter pays particular attention to the movement of the water, the variations of light on the crests of the waves, and the charged atmospheric tension—elements emblematic of the great Dutch marine tradition.

The attribution to Backhuysen rests on several stylistic features consistent with his oeuvre:

Treatment of the waves: lively white crests modelled with rapid, nervous brushstrokes typical of his manner.

Dramatic skies: heavy, contrasted clouds with highly theatrical shafts of light.

Detailed ships: precision in the rigging, sails, and proportions of the vessels.

Palette: dominant grey-blues, warm browns, and luminous highlights on the foam.

Overall dynamism: a palpable tension between sea and sky, conveying the atmosphere of an impending or unfolding storm.

The work may be compared with the marine painting preserved at the Musée d'art moderne André Malraux in Le Havre.

Active in Amsterdam, Backhuysen was one of the undisputed masters of Dutch marine painting, the direct successor to Willem van de Velde the Younger. His works range from luminous calm seas to spectacular tempests, often commissioned by shipowners, merchants, and dignitaries.

The present painting belongs to this dramatic vein, distinguished by energetic handling and a masterful rendering of maritime movement.