Siddende kone set fra ryggen 1851

Christen Dalsgaard made this watercolor and graphite drawing, "Siddende kone set fra ryggen," which translates to "Seated Woman Seen From The Back," in 1851. Dalsgaard uses conventional art materials to depict the woman's clothing with great care. The various textiles, from her hat to her skirt, are rendered with attention to their differing textures and patterns. The way these clothes are made, whether woven, knitted, or sewn, speaks to the labor involved in their creation. The social context of this work is evident in the woman's garments. They suggest a life of work and responsibility. The muted palette, especially the blues and grays, adds to the somber mood, reflecting the economic and political realities of the time. By focusing on the materials, making, and social context of this drawing, we can appreciate how Dalsgaard elevates everyday life to the level of fine art, blurring the lines between craft and high art.