Seks illustrationsudkast til H.C. Andersen, "Dynd-Kongens Datter" 1869

This is a set of six illustrations drafted by Lorenz Frølich for Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, "The Marsh King's Daughter". Though undated, these illustrations offer insights into the cultural and institutional contexts of 19th-century Danish art and literature. Frohlich's sketches reveal the visual codes used to interpret Andersen's tale. The narrative blends elements of Nordic folklore with Christian motifs; a monk appears in several sketches, suggesting the influence of religion on the story's themes. The contrast between the natural world and civilization, seen in the marsh settings versus the monk's presence, reflects broader cultural anxieties about progress and tradition. In Denmark, during this time, there was a growing interest in national identity and folklore, which also influenced the art world. Artists like Frølich contributed to this cultural movement through their illustrations of Danish literature. To fully appreciate these illustrations, one might look at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, where many artists like Frølich trained, which institutionalized the creation and appreciation of art. Ultimately, the meaning of these sketches is inseparable from the social and cultural context of their creation.