Oldingehoved 1756 - 1804

Cornelius Høyer rendered this small painting in grisaille, depicting the head of an old man. The upward gaze, a symbol of longing for the divine, is rooted in religious art, particularly in depictions of saints and prophets seeking heavenly guidance. This motif transcends mere piety; it embodies a deeper human yearning for transcendence. Recall Bernini’s Saint Teresa, caught in the throes of divine ecstasy, her eyes mirroring a similar upward trajectory. This symbol has reappeared throughout history. Consider its appearance in Romantic poetry, where gazing towards the heavens symbolized an emotional state. This iconography is a testament to the enduring human need to connect with something larger than oneself. The painting engages our collective memory, inviting us to recognize and feel the weight of centuries of artistic and spiritual expression. The emotional power conveyed through this simple upward gaze is a testament to the symbol's lasting impact, resurfacing, and evolving across time.