Paul Hermann’s (1861-1923) paintings are frequently displayed at auctions and exhibitions, however little is known about the artist’s life. According to certain sources, he was born in a little town of Neuhof, while others name Berlin as his birthplace. The artist took his schooling in the Koenigsberg Academy of Arts and later on perfected his workmanship in the capital of Germany. The range of scenery depicted in the artist’s paintings include the views of Norwegian fiords and southern coasts of Europe, so it is obvious that he travelled extensively. The date of Hermann’s death is unknown. One could come across his name in Berlin directories up to 1923, still there is also some information suggesting that he passed away in 1933.It is impossible to identify the correct version now.

Hermann devoted his life to landscape paintings – he was particularly fond of painting the moonlit nights. It is this time of the day that the paintings A View over the Canal and Harbour and Altstadt in Koenigsberg in the Moonlight and Busy Danzig with the Crane Gates in the moonshine depict. Apart from landscapes, the artist painted the chamber interiors of Biedermeier-style drawing rooms that was associated with the lifestyle and ethical views of a typical townsman.

The painting The Night Port displayed in the Kaliningrad museum is a marine landscape in the moonlight. It is very likely that the artist depicted the river pier of Danzig, now named Gdansk.

In the background of the painting the tower of the city gate stands high. It is located not far from the fish market. To the right, as if covered by the fog and the mild smoke of the ship funnels one can see the densely built-up area and the quay brightly lit. Colouristically, the painting is rather monochromic: the shapes of the houses are in a foggy blaze, while the city seems to be drowning in the play of the deep greyish-blue colour. Hermann succeeded most in depicting the transition from the cold night sea to the warm moonlight. This colouristic choice adds a certain tranquil, idyllic note to the landscape – the artist seems to be mesmerized by the majestic tranquility of the sleeping city.