“Stop and observe the sheer power of the sea in this painting of the ketch 'Gazelle' off Corbiere. See how the artist captures the dynamic interaction between the ship and the tumultuous waves, a vivid snapshot of maritime life.”
In this dramatic marine painting, the ketch 'Gazelle' of Jersey battles a turbulent sea off the coast of Corbiere. The vessel, with its sails expertly trimmed, leans into the powerful waves, appearing both vulnerable and resilient against the formidable natural forces. Ouless captures the raw energy of the ocean, with foamy whitecaps cresting and breaking around the ship. The sky, a mix of brooding grays and brighter patches, suggests a momentary break in a stormy day, casting a dynamic light on the scene. This work not only depicts a specific ship and location but also evokes the enduring challenge and majesty of maritime life in the 19th century.
- Artist
- Philip John Ouless
- Date
- 1874
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Location
- Jersey Museum and Art Gallery
What to Notice
Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.
The 'Gazelle's' red ensign, a flag indicating its British registration.
The lighthouse on Corbiere Rock, a familiar landmark off Jersey.
The spray of the waves hitting the ship's bow.
The precise rigging of the ketch, showing its working nature.
1 more detail is waiting.
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Philip John Ouless
1817–1885 · United Kingdom of Great Britain and IrelandPhilip John Ouless was a British painter and watercolorist, known for his detailed works.
Further Works by Ouless
Portrait of Mary Ann (c.1796–after 1880), Wife of the Reverend George Balleine
1846 · Jersey Museum and Art Gallery
The Reverend George Balleine (1786–1856)
1846 · Jersey Museum and Art Gallery
The 'Francis John' Passing the Casquets
Jersey Museum and Art Gallery
The 'Hebe' of Jersey off Corbiere, and a Paddle Steamer
1874 · Jersey Maritime Museum
Ironclads at sea
1880 · Royal Museums Greenwich
Greenwich Hospital from the north
Royal Museums Greenwich
The barque Patricia
Royal Museums Greenwich
The tea clipper Medina
Royal Museums Greenwich
More works to explore
Beyond Ouless: works from the same years.
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An Alpine Scene
Gustave Courbet · 1874 · Art Institute of Chicago
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Boating
Édouard Manet · 1874 · Metropolitan Museum of Art
Same era · 1850s–1880s
After the Bullfight
Mary Cassatt · 1873 · Art Institute of Chicago
Same era · 1850s–1880s
A Turn in the Road
Alfred Sisley · 1873 · Art Institute of Chicago
Same era · 1850s–1880s
The Artist's House at Argenteuil
Claude Monet · 1873 · Art Institute of Chicago
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Edgar Degas · 1873 · National Gallery of Art
Same era · 1850s–1880s
The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene)
Paul Cézanne · 1875 · Metropolitan Museum of Art