James E. Buttersworth was an extraordinary talent, capable of great expression in paintings both large and small. Here we have an example of one of his miniature gems and it's packed just as full with detail, skill, history and interest as the best of his larger canvases.
This is a rare scene for Buttersworth, depicting the French port of Calais. Though as the city is the closest to England, only 21 miles across the English Channel, it's not really far afield. Here a group of yachts sail alongside the cliffs while merchant and fishing vessels approach the harbor's entrance. This must be a race of some interest, as we can see the small dots of many spectators lining the cliffs overlooking the sea. In the foreground three men aboard a small boat row out to deliver a pilot to one of the ships waiting to enter Calais Harbor.
On the right of the painting we see a landmark of Calais which was already old in Buttersworth's time, Fort Rouge. Built on stilts, Fort Rouge was built during the Napoleonic Wars, in 1695, to strengthen the harbor's defenses after an English attack of 40 ships the year before. Fort Rouge actually sat out in the harbor, unattached to land which is somewhat hard to see from this viewpoint. She held a small garrison of fifteen soldiers which could be increased to 50 if necessary and was defended by twelve guns. To the far right in the distance are the spires of Notre Dame de Calais, an even older landmark of the city which unlike Fort Rouge, still remains today.
The left of the painting is bathed in a golden light with small cloud formations dotting the pastel skies. This backlights the sails making them appear warm in the rising sunlight. There is a stiff breeze from the sea, lifting the ship's flags and burgees along with the Fort's Tricolor. Buttersworth's deft brushwork shows in many small strokes the lift of the waves as they lap against the ships and shore.
The outstanding detail present Buttersworth's best works is particularly highlighted in a miniature such as this one. A rare find that just came out of a private collection where it was held for more than 40 years.
In excellent condition, titled verso, Off Calais, France.
