Blank 1846

This blank page was made by Johan Thomas Lundbye, sometime before his death in 1848. Lundbye, a Danish painter and graphic artist, is best known for his animal and landscape paintings. However, here we see the trace of something else entirely. What does it mean to encounter a blank page by an artist otherwise known for his depictions of the natural world? Consider the role of the artist during this period, their personal and professional freedom hinged on the support of wealthy patrons. Perhaps this page represents a moment of quiet resistance or a pause for reflection amidst the demands of artistic production. What do you feel when you see this blank page? Is it a challenge, or an invitation? Maybe it serves as a mirror, reflecting our own expectations and desires back at us.