Kunstnerens fader, læsende 1833

This sketch of Christen Købke’s father was made using graphite on paper. The artist has rendered a fleeting impression of his father absorbed in reading. Here, the material of the graphite pencil is used to its advantage, allowing for fine, delicate lines to capture the subtle contours of the figure and the chair. There’s a sense of immediacy to the sketch, as if Købke quickly captured the scene. The transparency of the graphite creates a sense of light and airiness, emphasizing the intimate atmosphere of the domestic interior. The texture of the paper also plays a role, adding a slight roughness to the image. This sketch is an intimate portrait of a moment in time. By choosing humble materials and focusing on the everyday, Købke elevates the ordinary to the realm of art. It encourages us to reconsider the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft, recognizing the value and beauty found in simplicity and directness.