Studie af H. C. Andersen efter maleri af Chr. Albr. von Benzon 1835. Farveangivelser 1930 - 1936

Niels Larsen Stevns made this drawing of H. C. Andersen after a painting by Chr. Albr. von Benzon, probably in a sketchbook, and it's all about quick observation. Look at how Stevns captures the essence of the figure with these sparse lines, like he’s mapping out the contours of a thought. There’s a casualness to it, but the drawing feels surprisingly complete, like a fleeting impression caught on paper. The rapid, repetitive marks give the figure shape and volume. The most captivating part is the face, where lines suggest expression and character. I can imagine Stevns trying to grasp Andersen’s essence in these strokes. It reminds me of the gestural energy in some of Francesco Clemente's works. It’s not about perfection, but about the ongoing conversation between artists across time.