Elisabeth Zahrtmann, kunstnerens søster, læsende 1866

This is a portrait of the artist's sister Elisabeth, painted by Kristian Zahrtmann in oil on canvas. Oil painting is a slow, layered process. Each glaze of paint must dry before the next is applied. This demands patience and control. Looking closely, you'll notice the brushstrokes, the texture of the paint itself. Zahrtmann has created a contrast between the smooth skin of the face and hands, and the rougher treatment of the background and clothing. This contrast enhances the sense of Elisabeth's presence. The choice of oil paint is itself significant. It has been the favored medium of European artists for centuries. It is a mark of artistic skill and status. Yet, Zahrtmann's informal, intimate portrayal of his sister challenges the traditional use of oil paint for grand, formal portraits. This painting reminds us that every artwork is a product of specific materials and processes. By paying attention to these, we can understand the artist's intentions, and the cultural context in which they were working. It’s not just the image, but the making of the image that counts.