Portrait of Frederik Christian Krag (1726-1763) 1761

Louis Tocqué painted this portrait of Frederik Christian Krag using oil on canvas. Consider not just the image, but the materials and labor required. Oil paint is made from pigment ground with oil, demanding skilled craftsmanship to produce vibrant colors. The canvas, woven from fibers, provides a surface ready to capture the likeness of Frederik. Now, look at the exquisite details of Krag's attire. The luxurious fabrics, lace cuffs, and meticulously tailored coat speak volumes about his social standing. These materials, sourced through extensive trade networks, highlight the global economy that supported such displays of wealth and status. Think of the weavers, dyers, and tailors involved in creating Krag’s garments, each contributing their expertise to the final product. By focusing on the materiality of this painting, we gain a richer understanding of its historical context. The portrait is not just a representation of an individual, but also a window into the social structures of labor, production, and consumption.