Jule- og nytårskort 1916

Axel Hou’s “Jule- og nytårskort” (Christmas and New Year's card) is a 1916 black and white print depicting an angel with outstretched wings, radiating light, in the center of the piece. The angel, who appears to be floating upwards, is presented in a classic, elegant pose and is the centerpiece of this small-format print that appears to be a card created as a personal gift for a couple. The detailed lines of the image are a reminder of the artist's mastery of the printmaking medium, and the overall impression of light and hope reinforces the festive nature of the card. Hou, a Danish artist, was known for his works in a range of genres including graphic art, illustrations, and portraiture. His creative period spans from the 1880s to the 1940s, during which time he created a large number of artistic works in different formats.