Rejsedagbog 1845

This is a page from Johan Thomas Lundbye’s travel journal, probably from the 1840s. Lundbye was a Danish painter, celebrated for his landscapes, particularly those depicting the Danish countryside. However, this journal page seems to document a journey elsewhere, perhaps to Switzerland, if the reference to Interlachen is any guide. It’s written in Danish in a cursive script, describing the landscape and likely Lundbye’s personal reflections. These journals provide invaluable insight into the artist's mind, revealing his aesthetic sensibilities and intellectual interests. What can this tell us about the role of the artist in 19th century Denmark? Well, Denmark was experiencing a surge of national romanticism, where artists were encouraged to find the spirit of the nation in its landscape and folk traditions. Lundbye's travel journal shows an artist seeking inspiration beyond his national borders, challenging the prevailing norms of artistic production. For those interested in learning more, further research into Lundbye’s biography and the art institutions of his time would reveal the complex dynamics between national identity, artistic innovation, and individual expression.