3-098-634 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Naval battle between Spaniards and Turks, mid-17th century. A battle scene between Turks and Christians, set during a period of Turkish mobilizations against the West. A notable feature is the sheer number of combatants depicted, violently clashing with one another. The ship's hull appears half-submerged; the combatants fight hand-to-hand, falling into the water in spectacular fashion. The atmosphere is thick with cannon smoke, and the destruction wrought by the battle is clearly visible. The sky is tinged with storm clouds, further enhancing the drama of the scene.