Baur, Nicolaas – De brand op de werven van Algiers, kort na het begin van het bombardement door de Engels-Nederlandse vloot, 27 augustus 1816., 1816 - 1820 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The canvas presents a scene of intense maritime conflict, dominated by fire and smoke. Here we observe a harbor engulfed in flames, with numerous vessels caught within the chaos. The composition is structured around a central cluster of ships, seemingly larger warships, amidst a backdrop of smaller craft and burning structures along the shoreline.
A pervasive atmosphere of destruction permeates the scene. The artist employed a palette heavily reliant on ochre, brown, and grey tones, intensifying the impression of heat and devastation. Flames lick at the masts and hulls of several vessels, their reflections distorted in the water’s surface. Thick plumes of smoke obscure much of the sky, creating a claustrophobic environment that emphasizes the scale of the disaster.
The lighting is dramatic; it appears to emanate from the fires themselves, casting an eerie glow on the surrounding elements. This selective illumination draws attention to specific points within the composition – notably, the central warships and the figures clustered in small boats attempting to navigate through the turmoil. These individuals appear dwarfed by the scale of the destruction, suggesting a sense of vulnerability and helplessness.
The artist’s rendering of the ships is detailed, showcasing their rigging and construction with considerable precision. However, this technical skill does not detract from the overall emotional impact; rather, it serves to ground the scene in a recognizable reality, amplifying the horror of the event depicted.
Subtly, the painting conveys more than just a depiction of physical destruction. The absence of clear victors or vanquished suggests an ambiguous narrative. While the fires and smoke imply conflict, the focus remains on the widespread devastation rather than a triumphant display of military power. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the indiscriminate nature of warfare, highlighting its capacity to inflict suffering upon all involved. The small boats struggling through the wreckage might symbolize attempts at rescue or escape, hinting at the human cost behind the spectacle of destruction. Ultimately, the work seems less concerned with celebrating victory and more focused on documenting the profound consequences of conflict.