En flettet kurv med planter og en bog. 1817 - 1875

P.C. Skovgaard made this drawing of a woven basket with plants and a book using graphite on paper. The artist has carefully rendered the texture of the woven basket, using hatching and cross-hatching to create the illusion of depth and form. The basket itself is a humble, handmade object, likely crafted from natural materials like willow or reed. Weaving is one of the oldest technologies, predating ceramics and metallurgy. In agrarian societies, baskets are typically made from locally sourced materials, with techniques passed down through generations. Here, the contrast between the organic, handmade basket and the cultivated flowers is significant. The flowers represent a kind of cultivated beauty, while the basket speaks to the labor and skill involved in traditional craft. By placing the book alongside the flowers, Skovgaard elevates the status of everyday objects and recognizes the artistry inherent in craft production.