Overlæge C.V. Zahrtmann 1930

Peter Ilsted created this photogravure titled "Overlæge C.V. Zahrtmann," sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century, a period marked by significant shifts in social structures and the rise of the professional class in Europe. Here, Ilsted, a prominent figure in Danish art, offers us an intimate glimpse into the world of Dr. C.V. Zahrtmann, likely a member of Copenhagen's intellectual elite. The act of reading, prominently featured, symbolizes knowledge, status, and the pursuit of enlightenment, all values highly esteemed within the bourgeoisie. Ilsted often focused on domestic scenes, reflecting the era's emphasis on home and family as symbols of stability. The monochromatic tones evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection. But, it’s worth asking: Whose stories are deemed worthy of representation? While Ilsted's technical skill is evident, we might also consider the power dynamics at play in portraiture, who gets remembered, and how.