The sea has always been a source of artistic inspiration. Its vastness and power have supplied immediately recognisable symbols for moral and religious works of art. It has been the site of the rise and fall of nations, and of sacrifice and heroism.From around 1700 on, marine art became a vehicle for nationalism. Aivazovsky, Turner, Mesdaq and others, they all had  a different approach to the sea.
    Our marine landscapes catalogue examines some of the ways in which European culture has looked out to sea ( browse paintings below ).