Artwork

Entrance of Calais Harbour

Entrance of Calais Harbour, by Joseph Mallord William Turner, ink, 1816
Entrance of Calais Harbour, by Joseph Mallord William Turner, ink, 1816

Entrance of Calais Harbour is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Joseph Mallord William Turner. It dates from 1816 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Entrance of Calais Harbour is a print created by Joseph Mallord William Turner in 1816, combining etching and mezzotint techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts three ships navigating into a harbor, with a cityscape and lighthouse in the background. The scene conveys a sense of dynamic movement, with choppy waters and wind-filled sails.

Technique & Style

Turner employed etching and mezzotint to achieve a detailed representation of the ships and a nuanced portrayal of light and shadow on the waves and clouds, creating depth and texture.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Joseph Mallord William Turner

Artist

Joseph Mallord William Turner

Joseph Mallord William Turner was born in 1775 at Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, where his father kept a barber and wig-making shop.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Entrance of Calais Harbour?

Entrance of Calais Harbour was painted by Joseph Mallord William Turner in 1816.

Where can I see Entrance of Calais Harbour?

Entrance of Calais Harbour is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Entrance of Calais Harbour?

Entrance of Calais Harbour is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Entrance of Calais Harbour?

Museum-quality prints of Entrance of Calais Harbour are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.