Engelsk dans i København 1807

Johannes Senn’s “English Dance in Copenhagen” is an early 19th-century watercolor and gouache on paper. The artist skillfully employs the techniques of watercoloring to capture a moment of social life among Copenhagen’s elite. Looking closely, we see the use of layering and delicate brushwork, which builds up the forms of the figures and conveys a sense of depth. The light colors enhance the scene’s elegant atmosphere. The choice of paper as a ground is also significant. Paper was becoming increasingly available, linking artistic practice to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. This wasn’t a quick sketch, it was carefully considered, revealing the artist’s mastery. This piece sits at the intersection of craft and fine art, challenging traditional distinctions between the two. Understanding Senn’s work means looking at not only the image, but also the materials, techniques, and the cultural context in which it was made.