ATTTRIBUTED TO GIOVANNI SCHRANZ (MENORCA 1794-1882 MALTA)
The Tempest, Sea Storm with a stricken ship and survivors being hauled to safety off a rocky coast
oil on canvas
58 x 95 cm

Giovanni Schranz was born in Menorca. His father, Anton, and two of his brothers, Antonio and Josef, were marine and landscape painters. Giovanni arrived in Malta in 1818. Giovanni and his brother Antonio ran their father’s studio after his death in 1839. Together they produced lithographic prints of naval and marine subjects. However, Giovanni is best remembered for his oil and watercolour paintings, made during a career spanning over 60 years.

In the present work nature is shown at its most threatening indicated by the jagged flash of lightning highlighted against the dark, menacing sky.

The 18th century was especially dangerous for sailors as ships had to contend with treacherous weather conditions, uncharted waters, and with the bravery and perseverance required to survive in such a perilous environment.