Artwork

Portrait of Johannes Søbøtker Hohlenberg

Portrait of Johannes Søbøtker Hohlenberg, by Unknown, unspecified, 1826
Portrait of Johannes Søbøtker Hohlenberg, by Unknown, unspecified, 1826

Portrait of Johannes Søbøtker Hohlenberg is an unspecified painting by the Biedermeier artist Unknown. It dates from 1826 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The work is a portrait executed in 1826, depicting a seated gentleman dressed in a dark coat and white cravat.

About this work

Overview

The work is a portrait executed in 1826, depicting a seated gentleman dressed in a dark coat and white cravat. The composition isolates the sitter against an unadorned, sombre backdrop, directing attention to his facial features and attire. The painting is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The figure portrayed is identified as Johannes Søbøtker Hohlenberg, presented with a composed, serious demeanor. His dark, curly hair and the formal dress suggest a person of status, while the restrained expression conveys a sense of dignity and perhaps a professional or civic role.

Technique & Style

The artist employs subtle gradations of tone to model the face and clothing, creating a gentle three‑dimensional effect. Light falls across the cheek and lapel, while the surrounding darkness deepens, a technique reminiscent of chiaroscuro that enhances volume without overt dramatization.

History & Provenance

Created in the early nineteenth century, the portrait entered the holdings of the Museum of Ethnography, where it remains on display. Its attribution to the artist known only as 231_person reflects the limited archival information available for this particular work.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known