Sea Storm Engraving Appraisal

Der Sturm auf dem Meer (The Storm at Sea) - Framed Engraving

This item is a framed engraving titled "Der Sturm auf dem Meer," which translates to "The Storm at Sea." The scene depicted is a dramatic maritime landscape featuring a ship in distress amidst tumultuous waves, close to a rugged, rocky coastline. The ship appears to be foundering, possibly shipwrecked, with its mast broken and sails ripped. A group of figures can be seen in the water or clinging to debris, highlighting the peril of the situation. The background shows a chaotic sky with dark clouds, emphasizing the intensity of the storm. The engraving is executed in a monochromatic palette, likely black ink on off-white paper, typical of its medium. The details are finely etched, showcasing the artist's skill in rendering the rough textures of the sea, the jagged rocks, and the distressed vessel. The print is housed in a dark, possibly wooden, frame with a simple, yet elegant profile. The frame appears to have some minor scuffing or wear commensurate with age. The print is matted, likely with an off-white or cream-colored mat, which is protected by a sheet of glass or acrylic. Reflections on the glass make it difficult to ascertain the exact condition of the print itself, though no significant tears or creases are immediately apparent. The textual inscription at the bottom center of the print, "Der Sturm auf dem Meer," is clearly visible, with additional, smaller text to its right, which is harder to decipher but likely includes the artist's or engraver's name and possibly the publisher or date. The style suggests a period piece, possibly 18th or 19th century, given the subject matter and engraving technique. The craftsmanship of the engraving appears high, with good tonal variation and intricate line work.