About this sheet
This print, titled "Overwintering" (Wintering Over), depicts a maritime scene featuring a ship stranded or anchored on a shore, likely during a harsh winter season. The ship is shown with its masts standing tall against a dramatic sky, suggesting a stormy or cold atmosphere. In the foreground, two figures are seen walking towards the ship, adding a human element to the otherwise desolate scene. The background is expansive, with the horizon blending into the sky, giving the composition a sense of vastness and isolation.
Carel Christiaan Anthony Last (Amsterdam, December 11, 1808 – The Hague, December 17, 1876) was a Dutch painter, draftsman and lithographer. He signed his earlier work as CL, later as C.C.A. Last.
Last was a son of accountant Anthony Gottlieb Last and Maria Christiana Schicker. He studied at the Royal Academy in Amsterdam and was taught by the Belgian painter Jean-Baptiste Van der Hulst, who lived in The Hague for some time. He married Everdina Jordens (1813-1864) in 1836 and settled in The Hague. From this marriage, Johannes Anthony Last (1837-1901) and Maria Christina Last (1842-1860) were born, among others, who would follow their father into the artist's profession.
Last painted and drew interiors and portraits, but was mainly active as a lithographer. According to Van der Aa, he was "(almost) the first Dutchman" to work on lithography techniques. He was assisted in his studio by his brother Hendrik. Last made lithographs of portraits and cityscapes (including The Hague, Amsterdam and Groningen) and illustrated various magazines and books. The artist exhibited at the Exhibition of Living Masters in Amsterdam.
Date of Publication:
- 1835: The print was published in the year 1835, during a period when lithography was a popular medium for artistic and commercial prints.
What Makes This Print Interesting:
This print is interesting due to its evocative portrayal of a ship caught in the harsh conditions of winter. The sense of isolation and struggle against the elements is palpable, capturing the viewer's imagination and evoking a narrative of survival and endurance. The composition's balance between the desolate landscape and the detailed depiction of the ship makes it a compelling piece of maritime art. The dramatic sky, combined with the meticulous details of the ship and figures, adds to the overall impact of the scene.
The print is in fair to good condition with some visible age-related wear. There are minor spots of discoloration, particularly around the margins, and slight fading in some of the hand-colored areas. The paper remains intact, with no major tears or creases, preserving the integrity of the image. The overall quality of the print is well-maintained, allowing the viewer to appreciate the detailed work of both the artist and the lithographer.
