A brilliant contrast between the lit waters in the foreground and the darkness of the background creates a sense of depth, and adds to the visual allure of this painting.

The transition from the lit waters to the darkened waters intelligently lays out the path the boat has taken from calmer toward more treacherous waters.

The ingenious use of lighting effectively creates the sense the boat is entering into an unknown and perhaps perilous situation, as evident by the sudden fade to dark just beyond the boat.

The potential, impending danger that lies ahead is further driven home by the fact the ship is clearly being tossed around by the waves, to the point it is nearly tipping over.

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