Prøvetryk til Chr. Winthers A.B.C. 1863

Curator: Here we have H.P. Hansen’s 1863 engraving, a test print for an ABC book illustration titled “Prøvetryk til Chr. Winthers A.B.C.” It's currently held at the SMK, the National Gallery of Denmark. The fine linework gives it a rather reverent feel. Editor: Indeed, it evokes a powerful sense of the ethereal, a kind of romantic vision in monochrome. The composition is immediately striking; that beam of light seems to bisect the image, dividing the earthly and divine realms. Curator: And that division is interesting because it's softened. The angel is on earth, gesturing as if mediating between that celestial light and the kneeling figures. It reminds me of the Annunciation scenes in Early Renaissance art. Here, however, the subject seems to be ordinary people—the shepherds. Note, even, the presence of the small dog in the lower centre. Editor: A fascinating detail. The presence of that ordinary animal grounds the composition, contrasting the almost architectural quality of the light's rays. I'm curious about Hansen’s choice of medium. Engraving allows for precise, controlled lines but also produces quite a high contrast image. Curator: Well, consider this was meant for a children's book. The sharp contrast may have been to make the image clear and easily legible for young viewers. But the cultural impact goes deeper. The symbolism of angels appearing to shepherds is powerfully rooted in the cultural imagination – conveying notions of humility, revelation and divine favour extended towards the meek. The historical impact of the religious iconography in romantic era illustrations is really impactful. Editor: You’re right, of course. The symbolic register elevates a seemingly simple pastoral scene. Examining the formal qualities alongside that established visual vocabulary unlocks layers of meaning, enriching our understanding of this unique work. It is both charming and weighty. Curator: It encapsulates so well the Victorian interest in synthesizing religious themes with a burgeoning interest in accessible, educative materials. Thank you for helping illuminate this gem. Editor: And thank you for putting this particular print into such a revealing historical and symbolic light.