Illustration til Johan Krohn, "Peters jul" 1870

This illustration for Johan Krohn’s “Peter’s Christmas” was made by F. Hendriksen in Denmark. Here, we see not just a sentimental scene, but also a snapshot of the cultural values being passed down to children. The image is a combination of text, a portrait of a child, and festive iconography. The poem speaks of excitement for Christmas, while the visual elements hint at both religious tradition and the emerging commercialism of the holiday. Consider the child’s formal attire, contrasting with the homemade Christmas decorations. This tension reflects the societal shifts occurring in Denmark, as industrialization and urbanization began to reshape family life and traditional celebrations. Institutions like the church and the family were central in shaping identities through the generations. To fully understand this image, it is useful to examine historical sources, like children's literature, periodicals and advertisements from the time. These sources can help us better understand the cultural norms and aspirations that shaped both the artwork and its audience.