Sebastian Castro (painter)

The few works by his hand that are currently known cover the range of subjects typical for marine painters in the 17th century such as sailing ships, port scenes and naval battles.

These works show an influence by the Dutch development towards tonal painting while retaining typically Flemish stylistic elements.

This is demonstrated in the Spanish Ships at Anchor (National Maritime Museum, Greenwich) which through the tonality of its color scheme, low horizon and build-up of clouds in the background reveals a Dutch influence while its more theatrical lighting and schematic depiction of the ships reflect typically 'Flemish' stylistic traits.

[6] His composition Spanish Ships Approaching a Jetty (National Maritime Museum, Greenwich) shows a similar tonality of colour and a low perspective.

The painting testifies to Castro's skill in depicting figures and boats in a landscape setting without sacrificing an overall painterly effect.