Udkast til Ester Balles gravmæle, med notater 1906

Niels Larsen Stevns made this sketch for Ester Balles’ gravestone using graphite on paper, sometime in his lifetime between 1864 and 1941. It gives us an insight into the cultural values surrounding death and commemoration in early 20th-century Denmark. The drawing consists of several possible designs for a gravestone, including decorative borders, crosses, and floral motifs. These symbols are deeply rooted in Christian tradition, reflecting the religious context of the time. During this period, the design of gravestones was an important cultural practice, often reflecting the social status and personal beliefs of the deceased. The inclusion of handwritten notes suggests a process of careful consideration and refinement. Looking at this sketch, we might ask how artistic practices intersect with personal and institutional histories. What can the design of a gravestone tell us about prevailing social norms? To understand this work more fully, we might research the cultural history of Danish gravestones, exploring the artistic and social values they embodied.