Saltarellodans 1810 - 1873

Wilhelm Marstrand created this lively drawing, Saltarellodans, using pencil and wash. The immediacy of the sketch gives us a sense of witnessing a spontaneous moment. Marstrand’s choice of humble materials emphasizes the everyday nature of the scene: a saltarello dance, full of exuberance. Look at the confident strokes defining the figures and architecture. The light washes create depth and shadow, giving the impression of a sun-drenched Italian setting. The artist deftly captures the energy of the dance, all with a few simple lines. Consider the labor involved, not just of the figures in the scene, but of the artist himself. Marstrand’s skill in drawing and his ability to convey so much with so little, speaks to a deep understanding of his craft. This artwork blurs the boundaries between a quick sketch and a finished piece, inviting us to appreciate the beauty in the everyday.