Constantinos Volanakis

The canvas has not been lined. There are small surface abrasions to the left of the fire-fishing boat and in its prow. As visible in the catalogue illustration there are scattered small areas in the sky corresponding to discoloured retouchings, however under ultra-violet light the varnish fluoresces opaquely and it is not possible to determine the likely extent of any further retouchings, although there appears to be a small area below the firefishing boat. Presented in a decorative gilt frame, with a grey-painted inner accent.
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The age-old practice of fire-fishing consists of a flaming platform or basket being constructed on a boat's bow to illuminate the fish swimming in the deeper waters at night. The blaze both lures the fish to the boat, and enables the fishermen to spear or net their catch.

The present work bears testimony not only to Volanakis's love of ships and the sea, but of the effects of light and atmosphere. The painting is as much an exploration of play of firelight on the boat and figures of the fishermen, set against the velvety backdrop of a quiet night at sea, as it is a marine painting in the traditional sense. In illustrating this subject Volanakis indicates his knowledge of the traditional and time-honoured techniques of Greek fishermen, while rendering homage with his respectful and atmospheric portrayal.

Volanakis may be regarded as the founding father of Greek marine painting. Trained in the academic tradition under Karl von Piloty in Munich, Volanakis was an inspiration to many of the younger generation of Greek artists, among them Ioannis Altamura. He became a renowned teacher after his return to Greece in 1883, becoming Professor at the Athens School of Fine Arts.