The Ship of Fortune

Artist Rembrandt Van Rijn (Dutch, 1606 - 1669)

Series Author , Herckman

Date1633

Place of ManufactureEurope

Mediumetching Medium Remarks: ink

DimensionsOverall (sheet (trimmed)): 11.4 x 16.8 cm

ClassificationsFINE ART

Credit LineDr. Gustav and Marie Schilder Collection

Object number1964.178.001

DescriptionA book illustration depicting the closing of the Temple of Janus after Marc Antony's defeat at Actium; Fortune,the woman in the boat, has turned her back on him and is sailing away. This somewhat obscure etching was used as an illustration to E. Herckmann's 'Der Zee-Vaert Lof' ( The Praise of Seafaring) Amsterdam, 1634. The image seems to relate to the opening of the peace talks between the Dutch & the Spanish after the Battle of Slaak 13 September 1631. Fortune has turned her back against the Spanish, who are forced to admit that they could go on no longer. Dame Fortune however smiles upon the Dutch & with the Temple of Janus finally closed she will contribute to the welfare of the country by a new period of prosterity in navigation.

Status

Not on view