The Royal and State Yachts, possibly the Arrival of Charles II of England at Moerdijk, 1660 1660 - 1693

Willem van de Velde I created this expressive pen painting of Royal and State yachts, possibly marking Charles II’s arrival at Moerdijk in 1660. Van de Velde, born in Leiden, was a master of maritime scenes during the Dutch Golden Age. This era, marked by burgeoning trade and naval power, greatly influenced his artistic focus. The painting captures a moment of political theater – the restoration of Charles II, supported by Dutch ships, after years of exile. Think of the swell of pride in the Dutch Republic, a Protestant nation backing a foreign king amidst European power struggles. Notice the delicate lines that define the ships and figures, evidence of Van de Velde's unique skill in this medium. What this work really communicates, though, is the palpable sense of anticipation and ceremony that such a historical moment would entail. How does it feel to witness a powerful nation welcoming back their king? The artist's decision to capture such a politically loaded event emphasizes how the era's political tensions were interwoven with maritime life.