This fine 19th-century nocturne by Danish artist Carl Ludwig Bille (1815-1898) evokes the dramatic romance of the ocean at night. Several sailing ships are navigating turbulent waters under the shimmering glow of a full moon. Their impressive sails expanding with the wind as the waves flicker with scattered light.

Bille was a master of marine scenes and spent many years offshore studying the conditions first-hand. Underpinning his work was a passion for sailing and respect for those working at sea.

Signed/dated and housed within a beautiful gilt frame with foliate and various decorative borders.

Learn more about Carl Ludwig Bille in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 27½” x 21” / 70cm x 54cm
Year of creation: c. 1883
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £28,356 achieved for an oil painting in 2000.