Egbert van der Poel is known world-round for his different versions of the Delft Explosion, also known historically as the Delft Thunderclap of 1654. This painting, although it does not portray the historic moment, shows a nocturnal fire that reminds the viewer of his other works because of its similarity in terms of composition. Van der Poel’s mastery is clear when it comes to capturing the fire’s diverse tones, as well as the lights and shadows, which he produces over the elements of the composition.
