"U(llykkelig) H(ændelse)" Nr. 4 1787

Georg Christian Schule created this print, "U(llykkelig) H(ændelse) Nr. 4," sometime around 1797. It depicts what the artist captions as an 'unfortunate incident' in a public square. What we see is a brawl between men in uniform. We get the sense that this incident involves the military. Schule made this print in Denmark during a period of relative peace. However, Europe was in turmoil due to the French Revolution. Denmark remained neutral but strengthened its military during this time. Consider this image alongside others from the period that touch on themes of military life. Research into Danish military history would certainly enrich our understanding of the artwork. So might a review of the artist's other works and a study of the institutions with which he was associated. The meaning of art changes depending on its cultural and institutional context.