Launching the Boat. Skagen

"Launching the Boat, Skagen" is an 1884 masterpiece by Swedish artist Oscar Björck that vividly captures the essence of local fishermen in Skagen, a cherished theme among the Skagen Painters. This remarkable painting, the largest of Björck's plein air works from Skagen, is proudly displayed at Skagens Museum.

The Skagen Painters were a group of primarily Danish artists who, in the late 1870s, converged upon Skagen to immerse themselves in depicting the daily lives of fishermen and the charming village scenes. Björck, inspired by artists such as P. S. Krøyer and the French Naturalism movement, joined this dynamic community in 1882, creating some of his finest works there.

"Launching the Boat" measures an impressive 160 by 194.5 centimeters and beautifully portrays the everyday activities of the fishermen, capturing their routines without emphasizing any sense of danger. Björck's use of thick paint layers brings the rough sea and sandy shores to life. Among the fishermen depicted is Ole Svendsen, a familiar face also featured in many of Michael Ancher's works.

This stunning painting is a treasured part of the collection at Skagens Museum, offering a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the Skagen Painters.