Visiting Grandfather 1853

Julius Exner painted this scene, titled 'Visiting Grandfather', in Denmark at a time when the country was redefining its national identity. Here, Exner presents us with an intimate glimpse into the life of a family in a rural setting. The figures are dressed in traditional Danish clothing. Note the grandfather's distinct attire, including his turban-like headwear, hinting at regional or cultural customs. The setting is a modest home, complete with rustic furniture, a spinning wheel, and even chickens roaming freely, which evokes a sense of simplicity. This painting, though seemingly simple, reflects the dominant artistic and cultural trends in mid-19th century Denmark. After the loss of Norway in 1814, Danish artists turned inward, seeking to define a unique national character through depictions of everyday life and local customs. Such paintings were displayed in Copenhagen at the annual Charlottenborg exhibitions, which played a crucial role in shaping artistic careers and national identity. Historical archives, costume books, and exhibition catalogs can offer more insight into Exner's world and what it meant to be Danish at this time.