Marine Painting Signed W. Vitringa - Dutch School From The Early 18th Century

Superb marine scene by the Dutch painter Wigerus Vitringa, active at the end of the 17th century. The artist, influenced by Ludolf Backhuysen, is known for his precise and lively depictions of ships at sea. The painting presents a balanced and dynamic composition: several sailing ships – probably Dutch flutes – cruise on a slightly choppy sea, under a subtly treated cloudy sky. The rendering of the light, the meticulousness of the rigging and the movement of the waves testify to the technical mastery of the artist. The painting is executed on an old wooden panel, made of walnut. Wax cover on the back, in a tortoiseshell frame. Wigerius Vitringa is a Dutch marine painter active in Leeuwarden, Alkmaar and Enkhuizen. He was admitted to the Guild of Saint Luke in Alkmaar between 1696 and 1706. A former lawyer who had turned lawyer, he specialized in naval scenes, influenced by Ludolf Backhuysen.