FA000319 – Floating Breakwaters at Brighton, English School, c1845

Part of the One Minute Wonders trail, a story written by one of our volunteers, inspired by objects on display.

By Dani Tabakova

An oil on canvas painting showing breakwaters blocking the raging waves from entering the 19th century Brighton shores.

As the viewer, how does this unusual perspective of Brighton’s seafront make you feel?

The foreground of this painting provokes a sense of danger as the light falls on the tumultuous sea, with safety only just visible on the horizon.

The highlighted breakwater emphasizes its importance – battling the waves to keep the boats on the other side safe.

While the heavy grey clouds linger, there is a slight glimpse of blue in the sky. Is the storm going, or has it only just began?