The north sea and its channels have been a source of harvest for the Dutch and numerous European nations for centuries. Here it is the colorful inspiration for our artist, where he has captured a moment of drift net fishing. This method, pioneered by the Dutch in 1416, became the prominent technique within the region for hauling in the days catch. Here the effort is underway with what appears to be two netter kaags and a supporting skiff.
With hopes of capturing large shoals of herring, the two kaags appear to be working together. Their fishermen can be seen at the stern of the foreground kaag, with lines in hand, anticipating the arrival of the lone skiff and its skilled oarsmen. The latter are possibly returning the towing warps of the net's opposite end, prior to both kaags sweeping up the catch.
Clays has preserved a serene and somewhat romantic afternoon of fishing in one of the northern channels. His colouration hints at a calm, but seemingly chilly atmosphere under clouded skies in which the sun wishes to shine through. Painted with sentiment, this work charms with its personal quality.
