THE VAN DE VELDES:
GREENWICH ART & THE SEA
The Burning of the Royal James at the Battle of Solebay, 28th May (1672) designed by Willem Van de Velde the Elder, made by Thomas Poyntz. c National Maritime Museum, London
WHAT? The Van de Veldes: Greenwich, Art and the Sea
WHERE? The Queen’s House, National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, Greater London, SE10 9NF
WHEN? Now until 14th January 2024 Free to visit
WHY GO? For a deep dive into marine art. The Van de Veldes, father and son, are being celebrated in Maritime Greenwich (as it was known) throughout Queen’s House where they had a studio some 350 years ago.
Even if you are not familiar with the Van de Velde name, you will recognise their popular seascape style. Replicas can be found on the hallowed walls of civic centres up and down the country.
They were the most famous marine artists of their day and inspired the likes of Turner amongst others. Portraying in great detail historic marine battles and triumphant moments of glory, the numerous patriotic paintings are displayed along with the prized, recently restored Solebay Tapestry that caused quite a storm when it was commissioned by Charles ll in1672.
It really is a show-stopper. Even if you are clueless about naval history, any visit to the glorious Queen’s House makes for a memorable outing.
IN THE KNOW Uncover the intriguing history of The Solebay Tapestry series, there were originally six, created to record the Battle of Solebay and celebrate the English Navy, along with a video of its full restoration on the museum’s website.