Keultjes, Gerardus Laurentius – De aanval van het verenigd Engels-Nederlands eskader op Algiers, 1816, 1817 Rijksmuseum: part 2

The canvas presents a dramatic maritime scene dominated by a large fleet engaged in what appears to be an assault on a coastal city. A dense bank of turbulent clouds occupies much of the upper portion of the composition, creating a sense of foreboding and emphasizing the scale of the event unfolding below. The sky’s coloration is predominantly grey and ochre, suggesting a stormy or overcast day.
Here we see numerous sailing vessels arranged in staggered rows across the foreground and midground. These ships are rendered with considerable detail, showcasing their rigging, sails, and hull structures. Smoke billows from several of them, indicating active combat. The artist has employed a technique that suggests movement and chaos; some vessels appear to be maneuvering aggressively while others seem caught in the fray.
The coastal city is situated on a low-lying promontory in the background. It’s depicted with a degree of simplification, but fortifications are visible atop the hill, suggesting a defended position. A plume of smoke rises from within the city walls, further reinforcing the impression of an ongoing conflict. The buildings themselves appear to be constructed from stone or stucco and exhibit a characteristic architectural style indicative of Mediterranean settlements.
The water surface is rendered with choppy brushstrokes, conveying the turbulence of the sea and contributing to the overall sense of dynamism. Reflections of the ships and smoke are subtly incorporated into the water’s surface, adding depth and realism to the scene. The artists use of light and shadow creates a dramatic contrast between the brightly lit vessels and the darker areas of the composition, drawing the viewers eye towards the action.
Subtly embedded within this depiction is an exploration of power dynamics and colonial ambition. The sheer size and organization of the fleet suggest a significant military undertaking, likely representing a display of dominance over the coastal city. The fortifications on the promontory hint at resistance, but their scale appears dwarfed by the attacking force. The painting’s composition subtly reinforces this imbalance, positioning the aggressors in the foreground and emphasizing their overwhelming presence. Theres an underlying narrative about intervention and conquest, presented with a degree of visual grandeur that might serve to legitimize or glorify such actions within the context of its creation.