Schouman, Martinus – De ontploffing voor Antwerpen van kanonneerboot nr 2 onder commando van Jan van Speijk, 5 februari 1831, 1832 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The canvas presents a dramatic maritime scene dominated by a violent explosion at sea. Here we observe a naval vessel engulfed in flames and debris, its destruction rendered with energetic brushstrokes that convey both force and chaos. The immediate foreground is characterized by turbulent water, the waves rendered with thick impasto to suggest their power and instability. Splintered wood and fragments of what appear to be rigging are scattered across the surface, further emphasizing the destructive nature of the event.
In the midground, a city skyline rises in the distance, its silhouette punctuated by prominent church spires – likely Antwerp, given the context. The buildings seem distant and unaffected by the immediate calamity, creating a stark contrast between the devastation at sea and the relative tranquility of urban life ashore. Several other vessels are visible in the harbor, seemingly observing the unfolding disaster from afar. Their presence introduces an element of witness and potential consequence; they are not directly involved but remain within the sphere of influence of this event.
The sky above is a swirling mass of dark clouds, illuminated by flashes of light emanating from the explosion. The artist employed a limited palette – predominantly grays, blues, and browns – to reinforce the somber mood and heighten the sense of drama. The lighting is particularly noteworthy; it’s not naturalistic but rather serves to highlight the central event and amplify its emotional impact.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of duty, sacrifice, and national pride. The destruction of a warship suggests a deliberate act, possibly an attempt to prevent capture or disablement. This implies a narrative of heroism and self-sacrifice on the part of those aboard, even in the face of certain death. The distant city serves as a reminder of what is being protected – a civilization and its values – by this act of defiance.
The composition directs the viewer’s eye towards the explosion, which acts as the focal point of the work. The diagonal lines created by the waves and debris further enhance the sense of movement and instability. Overall, the painting captures a moment of intense historical significance, imbued with both tragedy and a quiet sense of national identity.