Landskab ved Himmelbjergsøerne. 1865 - 1868

P.C. Skovgaard made this pencil drawing, Landskab ved Himmelbjergsøerne, capturing a landscape near the Himmelbjerg lakes. Skovgaard was a central figure in the Danish Golden Age, a period when Danish art began to explore themes of national identity. In the 19th century, landscape painting gained popularity as a way to express a connection to the land and to celebrate national pride. Skovgaard's choice of subject matter reflects this trend, inviting viewers to contemplate the natural beauty of Denmark. The light touch of the pencil brings us closer to nature as it inspires a sense of tranquility. Art historians often consult travel literature, political pamphlets, and exhibition reviews to understand how artists like Skovgaard contributed to the construction of national identity through their work. The legacy of the Danish Golden Age can be seen in the continued appreciation for landscape art and its role in shaping cultural values.