Schouman, Martinus – De beschieting van Palembang, Sumatra, 24 juni 1821, 1821 - 1848 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The canvas presents a maritime engagement unfolding on a body of water, likely a river or estuary given its width and the presence of dense vegetation along the banks visible in the distance. A substantial fleet dominates the composition; these vessels are predominantly sailing ships, identifiable by their masts and billowing sails, displaying flags that suggest a European naval power – specifically, those with orange, white, and blue coloring. The arrangement suggests a coordinated force, positioned strategically to engage an opposing side.
The central focus of the scene is a burst of smoke and what appears to be cannon fire emanating from one of the ships. This immediately establishes the event as a conflict. Smaller boats, rowed by figures in dark clothing, are scattered across the waters surface, some appearing to approach the larger vessels. These smaller craft seem to be involved in either reconnaissance or potentially an attempt at boarding actions. The presence of armed men on deck and within these boats reinforces the violent nature of the encounter.
The artist has employed a muted color palette – predominantly browns, grays, and blues – which contributes to a sense of realism and perhaps even somberness. The sky is overcast, adding to the overall atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. Light plays across the waters surface, creating reflections that enhance the depth and complexity of the scene.
Beyond the immediate depiction of battle, several subtexts emerge. The scale of the European fleet suggests a significant power imbalance between the forces involved. The positioning of the ships – with their flags prominently displayed – implies an assertion of dominance and control over the territory. The inclusion of the shoreline with its dense vegetation hints at a colonial context; it evokes a sense of foreign land being encountered or conquered.
The painting does not offer a clear perspective on the opposing side, which is largely obscured by smoke and distance. This deliberate ambiguity could be interpreted as an attempt to minimize the perceived humanity of the enemy, reinforcing a narrative of European superiority and justification for military action. The composition, with its emphasis on the European vessels and their actions, subtly reinforces a colonial viewpoint, presenting the event through the lens of the aggressor rather than the defender.