The Herring Market at Sea (on Loch Fyne, Argyll)

Colin Hunter 1841 - 1904

Summary

View of fishing boats on the calm waters of Loch Fyne, Argyll. A number of small sailing boats congregate in the centre around a large tug taking them ashore; a fisherman is visible in the furthermost sailing boat. A second large boat is visible in the background to the right, anchored before hills cast in shadow on the horizon. Seagulls fly low above the water in the bottom right corner whilst others float on the water to the left. Shadowy clouds are scattered across a dusky sky.

Display Label

The Herring Market at Sea (on Loch Fyne, Argyll) 1884 Colin Hunter 1841-1904 Oil on canvas The time is not long after dawn, in summer, and the scene the fishing grounds at the mouth of the Clyde. For weeks Colin Hunter was at work on his canvas by four in the morning, capturing the warm light on the waves. The herring boats are transferring their catch to the coasting steamer, which will take the fish to shops and markets on land. Scottish life in this painting is shown as successfully grafting a modern trade to a traditional occupation. 1884.10