Regnskab 1846 1846

This is a page from Martinus Rørbye's account book from 1846, held at the Statens Museum for Kunst. As an artist of the Danish Golden Age, Rørbye was concerned with the accurate portrayal of the world around him. But this wasn't just about aesthetics; it reflected a broader societal interest in documentation and record-keeping. Looking closely, we see neat columns of handwritten entries detailing his income and expenditures. In mid-19th century Denmark, a burgeoning middle class valued financial prudence and accountability, and the meticulous maintenance of such books was a sign of respectability and a manifestation of the Protestant work ethic. Artists like Rørbye were increasingly reliant on the market for their livelihoods. They relied on institutions, like the Academy, and the patronage of private buyers. This account book offers insight into the economic realities of artistic life and the shifting relationship between artist, artwork, and society. To understand this artwork fully, researchers could consult historical records, economic data, and biographies of the artist.