1301 - Anton Schranz (1769 Ochsenhausen – 1839 Malta) Circle

Anton Schranz (1769 Ochsenhausen – 1839 Malta) Circle Battle at a Strait between Europeans and the Ottomans A finely painted, historically significant naval painting featuring a detailed depiction of the ships. The painting likely depicts a scene from the Anglo-Turkish War (Anglo-Ottoman War) near the Dardanelles in 1807: The view looks down from a higher-lying Ottoman (Turkish) fortress toward the strait, where a British three-masted ship of the line (or a frigate) with cannons distributed across two decks is visible. The ship is attempting to force its way through the Dardanelles Strait and is being attacked by Ottoman (Turkish) artillery from both sides; near the coast below the fortress, a small Ottoman boat is sailing, while another European ship approaches on the right edge of the picture. The style and composition suggest a work by the marine painter Anton Schranz or someone from his circle. In 1791, Schranz went to Menorca; in 1817, he moved on to Malta. The harbors and ships of the British Royal Navy were the artist’s primary subjects; his patrons included, in particular, British officers and even the king. Three of his sons also became artists. Oil on canvas; 43 cm x 58 cm. Framed. Provenance: from the Kai Wünsche Collection, Die Weisse Villa, Hamburg. Anton Schranz (1769–1839) or circle. Oil on canvas.