Clays was born in Bruges. He was taught in Paris by Horace Vernet. He was active in Antwerp until 1856, and then in Brussels, where he died. He was a marine painter.
Paul Jean Clays
1819 - 1900
Paintings by Paul Jean Clays
Grey clouds threaten the sailing boats in this picture. They gather from away to the left, moving swiftly in contrast to the seemingly motionless vessels below. An angry sun picks up the white sails and – in the far distance – the sails of a windmill, making them glow. There are reflections in th...
Not on display
Paul Jean Clays’ heavy working boats are motionless, their sails hanging like sculptured banners glowing in the sun. But their power is palpable, three great vessels ready to surge forward with the first breath of wind. Although the vessels are stately and we see the detail of rigging, the painti...
Not on display