Dutch Boats in a Gale (1801) : Also called 'The Bridgewater Sea-Piece', within this composition we find a small ship desperately attempting to stay afloat as it receives an extraordinary barrage of rough seas. The crew look terrified, some of whom are on the verge of falling into the water, with little chance of being rescued. This scene is Turner at his emotional and expressive best, drawing us into this scene of terror, as if we were there on the day. The use of colour and lighting, for which he was well respected, are essential in building this atmosphere in the mind of the viewer. The lighting is dramatic dark and frightening, as we get into the fearful minds of the respective crews. It is almost a seascape in the style of Rembrandt or Caravaggio, though with the additions of this artist's romantic approach for which he became exceptionally popular. *JMW (Joseph Mallord William) TURNER (1775-1851) was one of the most important English Romantic Painters of the 19th century. He is known for his expressive colourisations, imaginative landscapes and turbulent, often violent marine paintings. Turner's imagination was sparked by shipwrecks, fires, and natural phenomena such as sunlight, storm, rain, and fog. He was fascinated by the violent power, turbulence and tidestorms of the sea. It's said that his last words before death were, 'The Sun is God!'