The Return of the Fleet of the Dutch East India Company (Louvre, INV 987)

Ludolf Bakhuizen was a Dutch painter and engraver born in Emden, Germany in 1630. He is best known for his maritime paintings depicting ships at sea, naval battles and coastal scenes. Bakhuizen moved to Amsterdam at a young age and began his career as an engraver. He later turned to painting and became one of the most prominent marine artists of his time. His paintings were highly sought after by wealthy patrons and he received many commissions from the Dutch Navy. Bakhuizen's paintings were characterised by their dramatic compositions, use of light and shadow and attention to detail. He was adept at capturing the movement of waves and the effects of light on water. His works often depicted stormy seas, shipwrecks and battles between ships. In addition to his paintings, Bakhuizen also produced engravings and drawings. He died in Amsterdam in 1708 at the age of 78. Today his works can be found in museums and private collections around the world, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, England.