To figurstudier. Øverst en siddende kvinde som iagttager et barn ved en dør; nederst en kvinde med et banr ved klaveret 1923

Joakim Skovgaard created this pencil sketch titled "To figurstudier" which translates to "Two figure studies," capturing intimate scenes of women and children. Skovgaard lived during a time when the roles of women were largely confined to the domestic sphere. Here, he presents women in their roles as caregivers and nurturers, subtly reinforcing societal expectations of women at the turn of the century. We see the subjects in quiet moments. The sketch shows women overseeing a child's first steps, and seated with them at a piano. These women are guides and guardians in the everyday lives of their children. Despite the traditional subject matter, there is a sense of warmth and connection in Skovgaard’s work. The sketches invite us to consider the emotional labor involved in caregiving, and the powerful bonds between women and children. The scenes depicted reflect the quiet strength and resilience often found within the domestic sphere.