Svensk kone og tre børn uden for et hus i ‘Vingåker’ 1851

Wilhelm Marstrand created this pencil drawing of a Swedish woman and three children outside a house in Vingåker. Made in the 19th century, this image offers a glimpse into the lives of rural families in Sweden. The setting, a simple wooden house, tells us about the living conditions of ordinary people. The clothing and activities of the family members further suggest a world far removed from the urban centers and wealthy elites. Marstrand, a product of the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, frequently chose subjects from everyday life and popular culture. His approach often reveals an interest in portraying national types, and his images can be seen in light of the various nation-building projects of the time. Further archival research into the records of institutions such as the Royal Academy could reveal more about the artist's influences and intentions. By doing so, we gain a better understanding of the social and cultural context in which this seemingly simple drawing was created.