Artwork
Affæren ved Vorbasse den 29. februar 1864

Affæren ved Vorbasse den 29. februar 1864 is a photography by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1877 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Created in 1877 by the artist known as 1233_person, the work titled Affæren ved Vorbasse den 29.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1877 by the artist known as 1233_person, the work titled Affæren ved Vorbasse den 29. februar 1864 is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. It presents a large-scale depiction of a 19th‑century battle, rendered as an image rather than a traditional canvas painting.
Subject & Meaning
The composition centers on a tumultuous clash, with a mass of cavalrymen in dark uniforms dominating the foreground. Rifles and swords are visible, emphasizing the close‑quarter nature of the conflict. A distant water body and a cloud‑filled sky complete the scene, suggesting a landscape caught in the upheaval of war.
Technique & Style
Executed in a realistic manner, the piece pays careful attention to the details of military dress and equipment. A palette of muted, dark tones contributes to a somber atmosphere, reinforcing the sense of disorder and tension inherent in the battlefield.
History & Provenance
The image entered the Museum of Ethnography’s holdings after its creation, though the precise acquisition path is not recorded in the available data. Its presence in the museum links the work to broader collections of ethnographic and historical visual material.
Context
The work aligns with the Realist tradition of 19th‑century European art, which sought to portray contemporary events with fidelity. Its focus on a specific Danish engagement reflects a period when artists increasingly documented national military episodes.
Artist & collection














