This lively scene along the quay in Ramsgate Harbour, Kent, England shows that even at night this working port was filled with activity. Salmon’s trademark luminism is on display here, with warm moonlight illuminating layers of clouds and the over 75 figures and 14 ships below, including two full rigged ships.

Two historic sea walls encircle Ramsgate Harbour today, almost meeting in the center, though this part of the harbor was still under construction when this was painted in 1846. Ramsgate Harbour is unique in Great Britain, as the only harbor allowed to call itself a Royal Harbour; given that distinction by King George IV because of the great hospitality shown him and the Royal Yacht Squadron when using the harbor in 1821.

On the right, Ramsgate Light is lit to warn sailors off the low tide which has already caught two vessels, now tilting perilously and resting on their keels. On the quay fishermen inspect the catch while others haul in a net. A guardsman stands at attention near his small guardhouse, likely looking at the figure of a gentleman gesturing to two young sailors in naval uniforms, perhaps tempting them to mischief. Like so many of Salmon’s best works this painting is filled with these small vignettes, slices of portside and seafaring life.

Not much is known about the end of Robert Salmon’s life including the date of his death though it is estimated that he passed in the late 1840’s, making this one of his last works. Moonlight scenes such as this one were favorite subjects in Salmon’s late period, and this showcases his mature skill in depicting light and fine detail throughout.

Salmon used alternate spellings of his last name, and the version verso here, “Soloman” was a known variant used to sign paintings.