Skip to main content

Main Building

Shipwreck

1858
Edward Moran (American (born England), 1829–1901)
The eldest in a large family of artists, Edward Moran came to the United States from England in the 1840s and settled in Philadelphia. Representing the mid-century romantic taste for blockbuster marines, Moran followed the lead of J.M.W. Turner, whose work he would have known from engravings. Strong contrasts of light and dark, a swirling merger of sea and sky, and a convincing grasp of natural detail contribute to a sensational effect of chaos and danger in this early work. Moran enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a painter of historical marines.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.


Main Building