 |
 |
 |
 |
Joseph Mallord William Turner
(1775–1851)
The Sun Rising Through Vapour
London, about 1809
Oil on canvas
The newly-risen sun disperses the clouds and infuses sand and sea with a golden glow. Fishermen unload their catch which is then displayed on the beach for sale. Behind, a number of ships including a first-rate man-of-war and a dismasted hulk (a prison) stand at anchor, a reminder that Britain was in conflict with France.
Turner painted numerous marine subjects early in his career. As here, he sought to make his reputation by matching the Dutch masters of the 17th century.
Purchased 1938 (No. 38.1)