Portræt af Per Johansen, oldermand i Tårbæk 1850

Vilhelm Kyhn created this portrait of Per Johansen in 1850 using etching techniques. The composition is dominated by the profile of Johansen, whose gaze is directed off to the side, lending the piece a contemplative mood. The texture is rendered through dense crosshatching, particularly noticeable in the background and the fur hat, giving depth to the subject’s features and clothing. Kyhn's formal approach to portraiture here reflects a broader interest in capturing the essence of the Danish people. The contrast between light and shadow not only models Johansen’s face, emphasizing its structure, but also symbolizes the complexities of identity. By utilizing the graphic qualities of etching, Kyhn highlights the material reality of the print. The dense lines evoke a sense of solidity and permanence. Through this deliberate use of form and technique, Kyhn creates a lasting image that speaks to both individual character and national identity, reflecting a moment in time that continues to resonate.