I smedjen 1848 - 1870

"I Smedjen" (The Smithy), a lithograph created by Joel Ballin between 1848 and 1870, depicts a blacksmith in his workshop. The scene is captured in a realistic manner, showcasing the blacksmith's tools and the process of metalworking. The artwork, housed in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, offers a glimpse into the daily life of a 19th-century craftsman. Ballin's detailed depiction of the smithy's environment, including tools, materials, and the workers themselves, provides an insightful view into the artisanal practices of the time. The composition, with its focus on the blacksmith's focused labor, captures the essence of craftsmanship.