This mid-19th-century oil painting by French artist Adolphe-Hippolyte Couveley (1802-1867) depicts a tempestuous coastal scene near Boulogne.
Couveley was a specialist, the official painter for the French Navy. As such, he respected the sea and its ever-changing conditions. He understood the complexity of reading the weather and the vital importance of good decision-making.
Here we see a tale of two skies. On the left, sullen clouds brood in a gradient of greys - ominous and foreboding. While on the right, the darkness gives way to pockets of light blue. It’s challenging to read, would you continue sailing?
Couveley was well-admired for his maritime scenes and exhibited at the Paris Salon for over 30 years. He later became the founder and curator of Le Havre Museum.
Signed/dated lower left and held within a splendid gilt frame with foliate.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 22” x 17” / 56cm x 43cm
Year of creation: 1839
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed with title on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, Germany.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Two old patched repairs. Frame with some light wear.
Adolphe-Hippolyte Couveley (originally Couvelet) was an accomplished French painter and lithographer. His talent for maritime subjects led to his appointment as the official painter for the French Navy. He exhibited frequently at the Paris Salon and his works are held in various public collections including the British Museum.
Learn more about Adolphe-Hippolyte Couveley in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
