This fine 19th-century nocturne by Danish marine artist Vilhelm Bille (1864-1908) evokes the tranquillity of the ocean at night. A fishing boat is returning to the beach under the shimmering glow of a full moon. A figure stands at the bow.

Vilhelm Bille was an accomplished painter of marine scenes and the son of Carl Ludwig Bille (1815-1898) - a master of the art. Artistic families are fascinating and it’s always interesting to contrast and compare generational developments. Oftentimes, the sons or daughters of successful painters produce works that lack the spirit of the elders. However, here, with Vilhelm, we see an inherited love for sailing and deep respect for those working at sea. His own son, Willy, also became a marine painter.

Signed/dated and framed.

Learn more about Vilhelm Bille in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 17½” x 19½” / 45cm x 50cm
Year of creation: c. 1870
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £5,482 achieved for an oil painting in 2000.