Studie af hoved af skægget olding 1898 - 1901

Joakim Skovgaard made this watercolor head study of a bearded old man in Denmark, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century. The image presents a study in character, but it also shows us a moment in the history of art education. Academic training at the time emphasized the ability to reproduce the human figure, and that was often done through studies just like this one. Notice that the man is wearing a distinctive hat. This costume-like feature suggests that the model may have been someone playing a role, perhaps in a theatrical production or a history painting. Skovgaard’s naturalistic but idealized portrayal of the man’s face engages with broader questions about the role of art in shaping national identity. Was he a peasant? A religious figure? Historical research might reveal how Skovgaard aimed to connect with Denmark's past, and how institutions like the SMK helped define a national artistic style.