Bærums smelteovn 1792

C.A. Lorentzen made this sepia drawing of Bærums smelteovn, or Bærum Smelting Furnace, sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. It depicts an industrial landscape, a subject that reveals changing economic conditions and the rise of capitalism. The image offers a glimpse into Norway's industrial history. During this period, Norway was under Danish rule, and its natural resources were being exploited to fuel economic growth. Ironworks like Bærum played a crucial role in this process, producing materials for export and domestic use. The drawing’s style reflects the period's interest in topographical accuracy, but it also romanticizes the scene. We see a carefully composed landscape where nature and industry coexist. Smoke rising from the furnace softens the impact of industrial activity. To understand this drawing fully, we would look at historical records of iron production in Norway, economic policies of the Danish-Norwegian state, and other artworks depicting industrial subjects. The meaning of art lies in its historical context, reflecting and shaping the society that produced it.