N.C.W. Sibbern 1854

Editor: So, this is a lithograph print from 1854, a portrait of N.C.W. Sibbern. The level of detail achieved in this monochromatic print is astounding. There's such formality in the presentation... it almost feels like he’s staring right *through* me! What captures your imagination when you look at this piece? Curator: Oh, absolutely. I am transported to a different age, observing him and trying to divine his world through his portrait, created so meticulously from stone! What stories hide behind those eyes, captured in a moment yet eternalized through lithography? And, if you imagine the moment when this work of art was created... a time of nascent technology; could this work offer more truth, since, technically, he could be copied?! Editor: That’s such a compelling point. Thinking about reproducibility and truth… Did portraiture through prints have different connotations at the time? I'm also wondering if he really had such stern eyes or the artist captured his view of himself to present to the world. Curator: Hmm… maybe, in a way, the question to ponder when studying it is "Do we believe we see Sibbern's core in this representation?" Consider all of the symbols, carefully placed like stars, hanging on his jacket. They signify the status conferred to him by society. His achievements, made tangible. So this piece begs the question: Is truth the way someone is, or the image society ascribes to someone? Editor: I love that you brought up the symbols, because at first glance, it feels straightforward, but there are hidden layers of societal messaging when looking closer. Thank you, it's amazing how a lithograph can speak volumes beyond a mere likeness. Curator: Thank *you* for asking great questions that reveal those volumes! Art is alive because of dialogue, or it is simply just stone and ink on paper.