Artwork
The Anglo-Dutch Fleet in the Bay of Algiers Backing up the Ultimatum to Release the Christian Slaves, 26 August 1816
The Anglo-Dutch Fleet in the Bay of Algiers Backing up the Ultimatum to Release the Christian Slaves, 26 August 1816 is an oil painting by Nicolaas Baur. It dates from 1818 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The iconography is defined by the presence of the warships and the boats operating within the bay during this pivotal moment of 19th-century naval history.
The painting depicts the naval engagement known as the Bombardment of Algiers, specifically capturing the Anglo-Dutch fleet in action on 26 August 1816. As a marine work, the subject centers on the ships and boats involved in backing up an ultimatum to secure the release of Christian slaves. The scene visually represents the military intervention and the specific historical event where the allied fleet enforced diplomatic demands against the Barbary state.
The iconography is defined by the presence of the warships and the boats operating within the bay during this pivotal moment of 19th-century naval history.
Technique & Style
Nicolaas Baur executed this marine scene in 1818 using oil paint applied to a panel support. The work measures 55 cm in height and 76 cm in width, adhering to the traditional format for detailed maritime subjects of the period. Stylistically, the piece belongs to the marine art genre, focusing on the depiction of the Anglo-Dutch fleet and the bombardment of Algiers.
The composition captures the naval engagement with a focus on the vessels and the historical event of backing up the ultimatum to release Christian slaves.
History & Provenance
Nicolaas Baur created this marine painting in 1818, two years after the depicted bombardment of Algiers. Executed in oil paint on a panel measuring 55 by 76 centimeters, the work documents the Anglo-Dutch fleet's ultimatum to release Christian slaves.
The painting entered the collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it is currently held. Historical records also associate the work with the Mauritshuis and Villa Welgelegen, indicating its presence within these institutional collections.
Overview
Nicolaas Baur’s 1818 oil on canvas, titled The Anglo‑Dutch Fleet in the Bay of Algiers Backing up the Ultimatum to Release the Christian Slaves, 26 August 1816, records a moment of naval pressure on Algiers. The composition centers on a bustling harbor filled with large sailing vessels, smaller boats, and a distant hillside town beneath a bright, cloud‑streaked sky. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection.
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Artist & collection
Women’s Skating Competition on the Stadsgracht in Leeuwarden, 21 January 1809
The Anglo-Dutch Fleet under Lord Exmouth and Vice Admiral Jonkheer Theodorus Frederik van Capellen putting out the Algerian Strongholds, 27 August 1816
The fire on the Wharves of Algiers, shortly after the commencement of the Bombardment by the Anglo-Dutch Fleet, 27 August 1816
- Council of War on board the 'Queen Charlotte', commanded by Lord Exmouth, prior to the Bombardment of Algiers, 26 August 1816
Council of War on board the 'Queen Charlotte', commanded by Lord Exmouth, prior to the Bombardment of Algiers, 26 August 1816
The British Fleet Forming a Line off Algiers
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