Oldingehoved, profil mod venstre 1625 - 1677

Heinrich Dittmers created this drawing of an old man’s head in the 17th century. It is rendered in black chalk on grey paper, and is a study in physiognomy. Made in Denmark, this work belongs to a time when the dominant artistic institutions, like academies, set standards for ideal beauty. Dittmers’ study of an aging man, with every wrinkle and sag rendered visible, presents a stark alternative. The artist is interested in the precise imitation of nature. Drawings like this were made as independent works for sale, but also as source material to be incorporated into larger paintings. To understand the function of this drawing in 17th century Denmark, we can look at inventories of artists’ studios, records from the local art market, and guild records that tell us how artists were trained. Art is not just a matter of individual creativity, but also a product of its time, place, and social context.