Homeward at milking-time. Evening. Saltholm 1897

Theodor Philipsen painted "Homeward at milking-time. Evening. Saltholm" at a time when European artists were increasingly turning their attention to rural life. Philipsen, with his roots in Denmark, spent much of his career capturing the landscapes and agricultural activities of his homeland. Philipsen was deeply invested in portraying the dignity of rural labor. "Homeward at milking-time" shows the evening return of livestock, highlighting the cyclical nature of farm life. This intimate portrayal, devoid of any romantic idealization, offers a glimpse into the historical context of Danish agriculture and its impact on shaping local identities. However, the idyllic scene belies the socioeconomic realities of the time. Class divisions were stark, and the lives of rural workers were often challenging. Philipsen’s focus on the simple, repetitive acts of farming, can be seen as a statement on the value of hard work and the importance of maintaining a connection to the land. It invites us to reflect on the universal experiences of labor, community, and our relationship with the natural world.