Copenhagen Harbor by Moonlight
The Met
Artist: Johan Christian Dahl(Norwegian, Bergen 1788–1857 Dresden)
Date: 1846
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 37 3/4 x 60 5/8 in. (95.9 x 154 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Christen Sveaas, in celebration of the Museum's 150th Anniversary, 2019
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
A moonlit harbor scene with ships, buildings, and figures under a cloudy night sky
Detailed Description
This painting depicts a wide harbor scene at night, illuminated by a full moon. The sky is a dark blue-grey, filled with heavy, textured clouds that partially obscure the moon. The moon, positioned slightly right of the center horizon, casts a bright, shimmering reflection across the dark water, creating a path of light extending towards the foreground. Numerous boats and ships, mostly dark silhouettes with visible masts and rigging, are scattered across the water, some docked and others seemingly in motion. On the far left, a large, dark building with a prominent crane structure stands by the water's edge; additional sailing ships are visible behind it. In the center-background, a tall, spired tower rises above a cluster of buildings, some displaying faint lights in their windows. To the right, a large, multi-story building with a gabled roof and many windows occupies the right foreground, its dark facade facing the water. The immediate foreground features a dark quay or dock with several figures engaged in various activities. To the left on the quay, two figures appear to be working on a small boat or raft. To the right on the quay, various items including barrels, ropes, and other harbor equipment are visible. Further figures are visible on the quay and in small boats on the water. The scene is predominantly dark, with the moon acting as the primary light source, illuminating the water and portions of the distant buildings.
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