Dagbog. Side 106 1844

Johan Thomas Lundbye created this diary page in Denmark in the 1800s using pen and ink. The text is a reflection on artistic production and reception, offering a glimpse into the art world of his time. Lundbye grapples with the challenges of respecting diverse opinions and the weight of European standards in assessing Danish art. His words reveal the tension between individual artistic expression and the expectations of the public. Lundbye seems to question the role of critics and the public in shaping artistic reputations, suggesting that their judgments may not always align with true artistic merit. He seems to advocate for a more open-minded approach to art appreciation, one that values originality and individuality over adherence to established norms. To fully understand Lundbye's perspective, scholars might research the art criticism of the period, the prevailing aesthetic values, and the social dynamics of the Danish art scene. Lundbye’s diary offers a valuable window into the complex interplay between art, society, and institutions in 19th-century Denmark.