Studie af skyer 1831 - 1834

Christen Købke made this cloud study with oil on canvas, a traditional medium for painting at the time. Notice the subtle gradations of tone, from the brilliant white of the cumulus formations to the brooding grays of the storm clouds overhead. Købke applied the paint in thin, even layers, allowing the texture of the canvas to show through in places. This creates a sense of atmosphere and depth, as if we are looking up at the sky ourselves. Cloud studies like this were an important part of the 19th-century artistic practice. They allowed artists to hone their skills of observation and capture the ever-changing effects of light and weather. But they were also a way of connecting with nature, and of finding beauty in the everyday world. The amount of work required to perfectly capture the ever-changing formations is immense. By focusing on materials and process, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and skill that went into creating this beautiful work, and understand its wider cultural context.