F. C. Lemming 1840

Edvard Lehmann made this print of F.C. Lemming using lithography. Lithography democratized image production, allowing for the wider dissemination of portraits beyond the elite. Looking at this portrait from 19th century Denmark, we see not just an individual but also the social values of the time. The subject's formal attire and composed demeanor reflect the emphasis on respectability and social order. Lithography as a medium played a role in shaping public perception, making images more accessible and contributing to the construction of social identities. Lehmann, as an artist, was operating within an art world increasingly shaped by academies and public exhibitions, institutions that influenced artistic styles and themes. To fully understand this work, we can consult sources such as period newspapers, exhibition catalogs, and biographical information on both the artist and the sitter. These resources help us interpret the print as a product of its time, reflecting particular social and institutional forces.