Artwork

Maria Magdalena Jensen, née Jessen, the Artist's Mother

Maria Magdalena Jensen, née Jessen, the Artist's Mother, by Unknown, 1850
Maria Magdalena Jensen, née Jessen, the Artist's Mother, by Unknown, 1850

Maria Magdalena Jensen, née Jessen, the Artist's Mother is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Maria Magdalena Jensen, née Jessen, the Artist's Mother is a photographic portrait created around 1850 by 231_person. The work is part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is the artist's mother, depicted in later life. Her attire, including a white cap, dark shawl, and lace collar, suggests a modest, possibly traditional dress. Her calm yet serious expression conveys a sense of dignity.

Technique & Style

The black-and-white photograph features soft, faded tonalities and gentle lighting, emphasizing the subject's face against a dark background. This approach creates a sense of depth, reminiscent of chiaroscuro techniques.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1850, the photograph is now housed at the Museum of Ethnography, though specific details about its acquisition or earlier ownership are not provided.

Context

Given its age, the photograph represents early photographic practices. The subject's clothing and the overall aesthetic reflect the social and stylistic norms of the mid-19th century.

Legacy

While specific impact or recognition of this piece is not detailed, it contributes to the broader historical record of early photography and familial portraiture in art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known