Velde, Peter van de – Het verbranden van de Engelse vloot voor Chatham, 20 juni 1667, 1667-1700 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The canvas presents a scene of considerable chaos and destruction unfolding on a body of water under a turbulent sky. A dense cloud cover dominates the upper portion of the composition, punctuated by breaks revealing a muted, overcast light. The atmosphere is thick with smoke, obscuring details in the distance and contributing to an overall sense of drama and urgency.
Here we see numerous vessels engaged in what appears to be a naval conflict. Several ships are engulfed in flames, their masts reaching upwards like skeletal fingers against the grey sky. The artist has rendered these fires with a dynamic energy, utilizing swirling brushstrokes that convey both heat and movement. Other ships, some bearing flags of orange and red, navigate through the turmoil, seemingly attempting to escape or engage further in the fray.
The lower portion of the painting is dominated by the waters surface, depicted with choppy waves and dark tones. Small boats filled with figures are scattered across the water, presumably carrying individuals fleeing the burning ships or attempting rescue operations. The presence of these small craft emphasizes the scale of the disaster and highlights the vulnerability of those involved.
The composition directs the viewer’s eye towards a central vessel, distinguished by its elaborate ornamentation and prominent flag display. This ship appears to be positioned amidst the chaos, yet it maintains a degree of stability compared to the surrounding vessels. The artist has used light and shadow to draw attention to this particular craft, suggesting its significance within the unfolding events.
Beyond the immediate depiction of naval conflict, subtexts relating to power, loss, and national identity emerge. The widespread destruction suggests a significant defeat or setback for one side, while the presence of flags indicates a clear political dimension to the event. The smoke-filled atmosphere can be interpreted as symbolic of obscured truths or the consequences of war. The painting’s overall tone conveys a sense of both devastation and resilience, hinting at the enduring nature of conflict and its impact on those involved.