To prospekter af København. Det ene med Frelserkirken 1746 - 1828

C.A. Lorentzen made this drawing of Copenhagen with pencil and grey wash on paper. The paper support really defines the work's aesthetic. Its smooth surface allows for fine lines and delicate washes, capturing a sense of light and atmosphere. You can see how Lorentzen exploited these material qualities to create a sense of depth and distance, using light pencil strokes to suggest the city skyline. The grey wash adds subtle tonal variations, creating a misty, atmospheric effect. This drawing is not just about representing Copenhagen, it's about capturing a specific moment in time. The quick, almost shorthand way of drawing suggests an immediacy, as if Lorentzen was sketching en plein air. This approach, rooted in direct observation, was typical of the period, and reflects a growing interest in capturing the world as it is. So, next time you look at a drawing, don't just think about the image. Consider the materials, the making, and the social context. You might be surprised at what you discover.