Portræt af regimentsdyrlæge J.C. Freund 1792 - 1879

Editor: This is C.A. Jensen's "Portrait of Regimental Surgeon J.C. Freund," made sometime between 1792 and 1879, using pencil. There's something so direct and honest about it. What strikes you when you look at this drawing? Curator: The interesting thing about portraits like these is their role in solidifying social hierarchies. A portrait served as a declaration of status and profession. Consider that the sitter, a regimental surgeon, held a position of considerable responsibility, tasked with maintaining the health of soldiers. The artwork emphasizes the cultural value placed on roles vital to societal functioning and public health. Editor: That's interesting! I hadn't considered that it was more than just capturing someone's likeness. Curator: Precisely. And, thinking historically, where would this drawing hang? How would it function in its original context versus how it functions in the museum today? Editor: Maybe in his office or home to showcase his profession, whereas here, it becomes part of a larger discourse about the era. Is there a specific artistic or political movement this aligns with? Curator: We could look at the burgeoning professional classes in Denmark at this time, and the shift from aristocratic power towards valuing civic duty and specialized knowledge. Artists like Jensen played a role in visualizing and, therefore, legitimizing these evolving power structures. Editor: I see now, it's not just about who is being drawn, but why, and what that tells us about the values of the time. Thank you! Curator: Exactly! I am so happy we are considering artwork with new perspectives.