Illustration til Holbergs Komedier 1813 - 1817

This is Georg Haas's "Illustration til Holbergs Komedier", a monochrome print now held at the SMK. The composition is an interior scene where multiple figures are closely grouped, creating a dynamic, almost theatrical tension. Haas uses tight, linear strokes to delineate forms, which adds to the emotional intensity of the scene. Notice how the architecture of the room is formed with strong perspectival lines, converging to emphasize depth, while the figures are caught in moments of exaggerated expression. The engraving technique allows Haas to play with light and shadow, accentuating the texture of clothing and the rough surfaces of the room. Considering the semiotic context, gestures and expressions signify specific social types and emotional states common in comedy, which suggests that the artwork functions as a cultural mirror, reflecting and exaggerating societal norms. By examining the graphic structure, we can observe how Haas uses form to amplify narrative and social commentary within a visually coherent space.