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Charles Meryon
It Rocks but Does Not Sink

It Rocks But Does Not Sink — Charles Meryon

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It Rocks but Does Not Sink

Etching
WallArt
Romanticism
1854
19th Century
Metropolitan Museum of Art

The artwork was gifted to David Keppel in 1917 and resides at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its IIIF Manifest provides detailed information about its provenance and technical characteristics.

Explore the haunting beauty of Paris through Charles Méryon's iconic etchings. Discover his gothic vision & masterful 'Eaux-fortes sur Paris' series.

Giclée / Art Print

Museum-quality giclée or canvas print with fast production and flexible finish options. ( Buy Hand Made Painting Buy Image)

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Print on Matt Cotton Canvas

Print on Matt Paper

Print on Paper with Frame and Glass

Canvas Rolled in a tube Free

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Framed

Framed with Antique Wood Gesso

White $1

Blurside $1

Extended $1

P118B $10

P118H $10

P118W $10

P438Z $10

P508JH $12

P508YH $12

P805H $10

P805Z $10

P919BZ $10

P919G $10

P919XJ $10

P959ZH $10

P968JZ $12

W106C $8

W218G $10

W218JH $8

W218Y $10

W307PJ $10

W316G $10

W316PJ $8

W316Y $10

W398PJ $8

W4111J $10

W500HY $15

W500JH $15

W692G $12

W849H $8

W940BG $15

W953PJ $8

H24-GOLD $30

H24-SILVER $30

H36-GOLD $45

H36-SILVER $45

Framed

Description from JS

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You may enter your own dimensions to fit a specific frame or space. If your selected size does not match the original image's proportions, we will either crop the artwork or extend the image with a mirrored or solid-fill edge. A digital mockup will be sent for your approval before production begins.
Please note that the on-screen preview does not reflect the actual cropping or extension. Only the mockup will accurately show the final composition.
While custom sizes are available, we recommend selecting a dimension from the predefined list to preserve the original proportions.

No Glossy Varnish

Add Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture) + $15

No Artwork Nameplate

Engraved bronze plaque displaying artist name and translated painting title. Size: 9x2 cm. + $10

Transparent acrylic plaque with black UV-engraved artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Black acrylic plaque featuring white engraved text with artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Engraved Bronze Plaque Details

This elegant plaque features the artist's name and the title of the artwork, finely engraved for a timeless presentation.

It is made from bronze with a refined, elegant finish. The text is precisely laser-engraved for a sharp and permanent result. Measuring 9x2 cm, the plaque is compact yet easy to read. It's built to be durable and scratch-resistant, offering a professional, museum-quality look. Mounting is simple thanks to the included adhesive backing.

Transparent Acrylic Plaque Details

The plaque includes essential engraved details such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used-like oil on canvas or watercolor-a brief description of the piece, and a QR code that links to the complete artwork information.

It is crafted from clear acrylic, offering a sleek, modern appearance. The text is UV-engraved in black to ensure strong visual contrast. With a size of 10x15 cm, it ensures optimal readability. It comes equipped with two metal hooks for secure wall mounting. The plaque is designed to be weather-resistant, making it suitable for various environments, and it includes interactive features that work seamlessly with smartphone scanning.

Black Acrylic Plaque Details

This elegant plaque includes engraved information such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used (like oil on canvas or watercolor), a short description of the artwork, and a QR code for quick access to more information.

The plaque itself is made from refined black acrylic with a premium finish. The text is laser-engraved in white for high contrast and readability. Its size is 10x15 cm, designed to be easy to read. It comes with two metal hooks for professional mounting. The design is sleek and fits any interior style. It is also weather-resistant and durable, with built-in digital integration for mobile compatibility.

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$ 70

ExclamationCircle Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM

It Rocks but Does Not Sink

Giclée / Art Print

Reproduction Size

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Reproduction Frame

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ExclamationCircle For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a ready-to-assemble kit. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.

All solid wood bars are included, precisely cut to size.
Easy to assemble using the provided screws - no glue needed.
Assembly guide included; setup takes under 10 minutes with a standard screwdriver.

Important:
Tightening the canvas on the assembled frame may require a canvas stretching plier tool, which is not included in the kit. This tool helps ensure proper tension and a professional finish.

Nameplate

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Protective Varnish

Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture)

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Urgent

Delivery in less than 3 weeks instead of standard 4/5 weeks. No compromise on quality.

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Express Shipping

Worldwide Delivery () in 4/5 weeks. (29 August).

Included

Total Price

$ 70

Quick Facts

Artist: Charles Meryon
Subject or theme: Ship in a stormy sea near a castle
Title: It Rocks but Does Not Sink
Year: 1854
Medium: Drawing or painting (etching implied)

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:

What medium is the artwork described as being?

Oil painting

Watercolor wash

Drawing or painting (implied etching/print)

Question 2:

What general theme does the artwork convey?

A peaceful harbor scene

Adventure and perseverance in difficult weather

A portrait of Parisian life

Question 3:

What notable architectural element is visible near the ship?

A modern pier

A castle-like structure

Distant mountains

Question 4:

In what year was this artwork created?

1821

1854

1868

Question 5:

Which artist is associated with the creation of this piece?

Claude Monet

Charles Meryon

Gustave Courbet

Collectible Description

A Tempestuous Voyage Against the Odds

This evocative depiction, titled "It Rocks but Does Not Sink," plunges the viewer into the heart of maritime peril. The scene is dominated by a magnificent vessel battling through waters rendered with dramatic ferocity. One can almost feel the spray against the rigging and hear the groan of the timbers under duress. It is more than just a depiction of a storm; it is a profound meditation on human resilience, captured in stark, powerful contrast.

The Mastery of Line: Technique and Atmosphere

Executed in a style reminiscent of 19th-century etching traditions, the work utilizes dramatic black and white tonalities to build an atmosphere thick with tension. The artist has masterfully employed line work to convey both the chaotic energy of the rough sea—the cresting waves threatening to overwhelm all—and the steadfast structure of the ship itself. The inclusion of a castle-like edifice in the background anchors the drama, suggesting that even amidst nature's wildest tantrums, civilization and history persist.

Echoes of Parisian Artistic Life

While the subject matter speaks of open seas and distant shores, the spirit of this piece connects deeply to the artistic currents of mid-19th century Paris. The period saw a flourishing of graphic arts, where artists like Charles Meryon elevated etching from mere illustration to high art. Although this specific work captures a nautical adventure, it shares the same commitment to detailed observation and dramatic narrative found in Meryon's celebrated series. It speaks to an era when travel, exploration, and the sublime power of nature fueled artistic genius.

Symbolism of Perseverance

At its core, "It Rocks but Does Not Sink" is a powerful allegory. The ship itself represents humanity, or perhaps any endeavor—be it a career, a relationship, or an enterprise—facing overwhelming adversity. The visible figures on deck, diligently attending to their duties despite the chaos, embody perseverance and teamwork. It whispers a timeless message: that with skill, cooperation, and unwavering spirit, one can weather even the most tumultuous storms of life.

Bringing the Drama Home

For collectors and designers seeking art with narrative weight, this reproduction offers an immediate focal point of dramatic energy. Imagine this piece gracing a study or a grand hall; it does not merely decorate a space—it imbues it with tales of courage and endurance. It is a visual anchor for contemplation, reminding us that the greatest journeys are often those undertaken through struggle.

Artist Biography

early life and naval career

charles méryon, a french artist, was born on november 23, 1821, in paris. his mother, a dancer at the paris opera, had a significant influence on his early life. méryon's colour blindness led him to pursue a naval career, which took him on extensive voyages, including a four-year tour around the world. this experience would later inspire his etched depictions of paris.

artistic journey and notable works

after realizing that colour-blindness ruled out painting for him, méryon settled on etching in 1848. his most famous work is the series eaux-fortes sur paris, which powerfully conveys his distinctive gothic vision of paris. this series, executed from 1850 to 1854, includes twenty-two etchings that are now considered a testament to méryon's skill and artistry.

le stryge (the gargoyle or the vampire), 1853, is now meryon's most famous print, showcasing his mastery of the etching medium. (view on TopImpressionists)
st. etienne-du-mont, paris, from eaux-fortes sur paris, demonstrates méryon's ability to capture the essence of parisian landscapes. (view on TopImpressionists)
etchings of paris; title page to the suite, housed at the metropolitan museum of art, serves as a prime example of méryon's etching prowess. (view on TopImpressionists)

museums and collections featuring charles méryon's work

* the metropolitan museum of art (new york city, united states) houses several of méryon's notable etchings, including etchings of paris; title page to the suite. (view on TopImpressionists) * harvard art museums (cambridge, united states) features méryon's le stryge, a testament to his skill in etching. (view on TopImpressionists) discover more about charles méryon's life and work on wikipedia: read more

Charles Meryon

1821 - 1868 , France

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Gothic Romanticism
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Eugène Delacroix
- Caspar David Friedrich
Date Of Birth: November 23, 1821
Date Of Death: February 14, 1868
Full Name: Charles Meryon
Nationality: French
Notable Artworks:
- Eaux-fortes sur Paris
- Le Stryge
- St. Etienne-du-Mont
Place Of Birth: Paris, France

Shadows & Splendor: A Journey Through the Soul of Gothic Art and Architectural Grandeur

Embark on a profound journey through the spiritual intensity of Gothic art. Explore the architectural marvels, luminous stained glass, and sacred sculptures that define this era of grandeur and human devotion.

Explore Article read article

Charles Meryon: The Full Collection

Explore artworks organized by themes, styles, and characteristics.

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Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Frame

White $1

Blurside $1

Extended $1

P118B $10

P118H $10

P118W $10

P438Z $10

P508JH $12

P508YH $12

P805H $10

P805Z $10

P919BZ $10

P919G $10

P919XJ $10

P959ZH $10

P968JZ $12

W106C $8

W218G $10

W218JH $8

W218Y $10

W307PJ $10

W316G $10

W316PJ $8

W316Y $10

W398PJ $8

W4111J $10

W500HY $15

W500JH $15

W692G $12

W849H $8

W940BG $15

W953PJ $8

H24-GOLD $30

H24-SILVER $30

H36-GOLD $45

H36-SILVER $45

Framed

Reproduction Size

Protective Varnish

Nameplate

Engraved Bronze Plaque Details

Transparent Acrylic Plaque Details

Black Acrylic Plaque Details

Urgent Production

Included Benefits

Free Worldwide Express Shipping

High-Quality Linen Canvas

Full Shipping Insurance

Customs Tax Refund Guarantee

True Color Matching Guarantee

60-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)

100% Money-Back Guarantee

Bulk Discount Offer

Total Price

$ 70

Summary

Giclée / Art Print

-

Reproduction Frame

-

Nameplate

-

Protective Varnish

-

Urgent

-

Express Shipping

Included

Total Price

$ 70

Quick Facts

Art Quiz

Collectible Description

A Tempestuous Voyage Against the Odds

The Mastery of Line: Technique and Atmosphere

Echoes of Parisian Artistic Life