Neapolitan Fisher Girls Surprised Bathing by Moonlight
- Original dimensions
- 65.7 x 81 cm
- Museum
- Huntington Library
- Year
- 1840
Scene depicted
This captivating painting depicts a nocturnal scene bathed in silvery light. It shows young Neapolitan women, surprised in the midst of bathing, their delicate forms immersed in the mysterious reflection of the moon. The atmosphere is imbued with pure sensuality and delicate sweetness, where the silence of the night is almost palpable.
Historical context
Created in 1840, this painting emblematic of Turner reveals the timeless beauty of Naples, a vibrant city whose port atmosphere and liveliness permeate every brushstroke. The painting, currently on display at the Huntington Library, evokes romanticism and the sublime, characteristics of the British artistic movement in the 19th century.
Place in the artist's career
The painting Neapolitan Fisher Girls Surprised Bathing by Moonlight marks an important turning point in Turner’s career, between his promising beginnings and his mature period. Like his famous work “The Storm,” this painting reflects a technical evolution towards a much freer and more emotional expression, capturing light in an almost supernatural way.
Anecdote
“I always seek to capture the light of the world, a breath of beauty amidst the tumult.” This inspired quote from Turner evokes his desire to immortalize a perfect moment. Looking at this painting, one imagines Turner, awed by the nocturnal scene, where the young fisherwomen, surprised while bathing, embody the carefreeness and magic of the night.