Fishing Boats on the Beach in Winter 1853 - 1888

Anton Mauve made this image of fishing boats on the beach using watercolor, graphite and black chalk. It is an interesting combination of media, where black chalk and graphite are used for dry drawing techniques, while watercolor is used for painting. The atmospheric qualities of the watercolor wash give a sense of coldness, and bleakness. The paper support also influences the appearance of the artwork, and its off-white hue adds to the overall grey-scale of the piece. The combination of drawing and painting techniques is used to depict a familiar scene, with a focus on the workers and the boats at the center of the fishing industry. The fishing boats are rendered in neutral tones and positioned on the beach, waiting to be taken out to sea. Figures gather around the boats, either waiting or unloading their catch for distribution and sale. The material and the making are important to understand the full meaning of this artwork, and challenges the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.