“Outgoing Ship” is an exemplary work by Hans Holbein the Younger, created between 1532 and 1533 in Germany. This piece belongs to the Northern Renaissance art movement and is classified under the genre of genre painting. Presently, it is housed in the Städel Museum in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
The artwork is a meticulous drawing depicting a bustling scene aboard a ship. The intricate details capture the activities and interactions of the crew members as they prepare for their voyage. The ship is shown with its sails set and its various riggings and ropes skillfully rendered, emphasizing Holbein’s attention to maritime details. The expressions and postures of the individuals reflect a sense of purpose and urgency, characteristic of a vessel about to depart. The linear and textured approach in the drawing highlights the structural elements of the ship, giving a three-dimensional feel to the depiction. Holbein’s ability to convey movement and atmosphere in this genre painting showcases his mastery in capturing everyday scenes with remarkable precision and vitality.
