WILLAERTS, Abraham
(b. 1603, Utrecht, d. 1669, Utrecht)

A Dutch Warship off a Harbour Firing a Salute

1640
Oil on oak panel, 46 x 64 cm
Private collection

The painting represents a Dutch Warship off a harbour firing a salute; a rowing boat approaching with a crowd cheering and waving. The date of 1640 for the painting is significant in Dutch naval history, as in that and the previous year they had considerable success against the Spanish fleet, firstly off Dover on 16th September 1639. The complete victory was of immense importance for the Dutch nation, and was celebrated in verse, literature and medals.