The North Cape by Moonlight
The Met
Artist: Peder Balke(Norwegian, Helgøya, Nes 1804–1887 Oslo (Kristiania))
Date: 1848
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 24 7/16 x 33 7/16 in. (62 x 85 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Christen Sveaas, in celebration of the Museum's 150th Anniversary, 2019
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
A dark, moonlit seascape with a small boat, figures, and cliffs under a cloudy sky
Detailed Description
The scene depicts a vast, dark seascape under a moonlit sky. The upper third is dominated by heavy, dark clouds, through which a bright, crescent moon shines in the upper left-center. Rays of light extend from the moon, illuminating parts of the clouds and casting a strong reflection across the water. Below the sky, a wide expanse of dark water stretches across the middle and foreground. A prominent horizontal band of bright moonlight reflects on the water's surface, extending from the horizon towards the viewer. In the mid-ground, a massive, dark landmass or ice formation rises abruptly, spanning most of the width of the scene. This formation has a relatively flat top and appears rugged, with a distinct V-shaped gap in its center. Some areas on its surface suggest snow or ice. In the foreground, slightly to the right of center, a small, dark rowboat is visible. It contains several figures, one of whom stands upright, holding a long pole or oar. Further to the right, a low-lying landmass or small island features a few indistinct structures and a sailboat with a dark, triangular sail. On the far left, in the distant background, the faint silhouettes of two larger sailing ships can be seen on the horizon. The overall palette is dominated by deep grays, dark blues, and browns, contrasted sharply by the bright whites and pale yellows of the moon and its reflection.
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