Heraklion Harbour Crete Ship Milos Greek Port Scene Signed 1967 Watercolour

Title: Heraklion Harbour Crete Ship Milos Greek Port Scene Signed 1967 Watercolour
by John Steane (b.1931)
Signed: Bottom right
Size: 16.5 inches (height) x 23.25 inches (width)
watercolor painting on paper, unframed
condition: Good, with light surface rippling and minor edge wear
Provenance: from a large private collection of this artists work, Oxford, England

Description:
A richly detailed harbour scene by British artist John Steane (b.1931), this signed watercolour from 1967 captures a sweeping view of Heraklion, the capital of Crete, seen from a shaded rock shelter or cave. At the centre is the ship Milos, docked against a vivid turquoise bay, with other fishing and cargo vessels scattered throughout the port. Trucks, cranes, and coastal buildings line the quay, suggesting a working Mediterranean harbour in full motion.

Heraklion (historically spelled Heraclean or Heracleum) has long been a central hub of trade and culture in the Aegean. Steane’s vantage point cleverly frames the composition within the rocky opening, adding depth and storytelling to the piece. The play of light across water and architecture showcases Steane’s sensitivity to place, and the pale blue haze over the distant city gives the piece a timeless quality.

This is one of the artist’s strongest international works, balancing strong linear structure with loose Mediterranean atmosphere. It will appeal to collectors of Greek maritime art, 20th-century travel painting, and watercolour cityscapes.