This oil on canvas by Gustave de Smet depicts the port of Ostend with thick brushstrokes and a muted palette. The painting captures the essence of a working port with a sense of quiet contemplation.

Gustave de Smet (1877-1943) was a Belgian painter associated with Fauvism and Expressionism. He is known for his simplified forms, bold colours, and depictions of everyday life. His artistic journey involved experimentation with various styles, including a period influenced by Cubism, before he developed his own distinctive approach. De Smet's work often reflects a sense of melancholy and introspection, capturing the atmosphere of his surroundings. He was a member of the Latem School, a group of artists who congregated in the village of Sint-Martens-Latem, near Ghent, seeking a retreat from urban life and embracing a more rural existence. 'The Port of Ostend' exemplifies de Smet's style through its depiction of a harbour scene. The painting features ships rendered with thick, expressive brushstrokes and a muted palette. The composition is relatively simple, with the focus on the shapes and forms of the boats and the reflections in the water. The colours are subdued, creating a hazy, atmospheric effect. The overall impression is one of quiet contemplation, capturing the essence of a working port.