Ved Maribo sø 1857

This is an undated etching, "Ved Maribo sø," or "At Lake Maribo," by C.A. Kølle. The composition is dominated by horizontal lines, which lend stability to the scene. Our eye follows the water’s edge across the lake to the distant land, the scene divided between the earth and the sky. The formal structure invites contemplation, and the interplay of light and shadow creates depth within the two-dimensional plane. Notice the use of line to define the reeds and the subtle gradations in tone that suggest atmosphere. Kølle’s choice of etching allows for fine detail, evident in the rendering of the water's surface and the texture of the vegetation. The boats mirror each other, with their reflections serving to double the presence of the objects, adding another layer of symmetry. The overall effect is not just a depiction of a place but an exploration of the formal qualities of the medium itself. It's a study in contrasts and quiet harmony.