"Poesi" 1842 - 1845

This is a page from Johan Thomas Lundbye’s notebook, "Poesi", which translates to "poetry", and was created in Denmark in the early 19th century. Lundbye was working at a time when artists were very interested in exploring what it meant to be Danish. This page reflects a preoccupation with capturing the essence of Danish identity through language and cultural expression. We see references to folk songs, proverbs, and the writings of prominent figures like Ingemann. It suggests an interest in defining and preserving a unique cultural heritage. Institutions like the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts played a significant role in shaping artistic movements. Artists were encouraged to explore national themes and subjects. Lundbye's notebook can be understood as part of this broader cultural project. As historians, we can look at Lundbye’s personal papers and the archives of institutions like the Royal Danish Academy. By examining these, we can better understand the complex interplay between art, identity, and cultural institutions.