To almuebørn 1839 - 1917

Editor: Here we have "To almuebørn" – which I believe translates to "The Peasant Children" – a pencil drawing by Hans Smidth, dated between 1839 and 1917. It's currently at the SMK. It seems so simple, but the children are incredibly lifelike; I’m interested in what captures your attention most about this work? Curator: It is the careful modulation of line weight that commands my gaze. Consider the outlines defining the children; observe the artist’s deliberate variation, thickening in areas suggesting shadow and depth, thinning where light ostensibly strikes. How might such a calculated approach shape our perception of form and space here? Editor: It makes them feel very present, even though it’s just pencil on paper. Almost sculptural. Do you think the figures’ clothing – or lack of background – has any significance within the overall structure of the artwork? Curator: Assuredly. The artist gives us their clothing and bodies so plainly, focusing on the intricacies of form over all else. Each element underscores the central focus on volumetric form. How do you think the texture helps convey this idea? Editor: The hatching does make their forms quite palpable. It's an interesting decision considering the date. I initially saw only the children. Now I see all the careful work creating them. Curator: Indeed. Focusing on line, shading, and structure draws our attention to Smidth's skillful execution and manipulation of visual elements to conjure a tangible and immediate encounter. The effect is far more powerful than you might think, considering the simple medium.