Herman Conrad - Untitled

The iconography of the naval battle, or naumachia, is pervasive throughout the history of Western art and beyond. Like all warlike subjects, it is widely used for celebratory purposes or in adventurous narratives. From the great episodes of antiquity such as Salamis or Actium, through the immensely popular episode of Lepanto, the subject of the naval battle continues to influence 19th-century historical painting, influenced by the Romantic culture.

Although based on an interpretation rooted in phenomenal reality, Herman Conrad nevertheless executed this scene with strong expressionistic overtones to enhance the subject's drama. The scene is entirely compressed into the foreground, leaving no room for any depth. The two ships occupy almost the entire surface of the painting. The artist uses a mixed technique, with brushstrokes looser in some areas to capture every detail, while in others (especially where the battle rages) they become quicker and more cursory. The color palette is vibrant, again to accentuate the excitement of the scene.

Herman Conrad was a German officer during World War II, decorated with the Iron Cross. He specialized in depicting naval subjects.

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