Artwork

Et frugtstykke

Et frugtstykke, by Hanne Hellesen, oil, 1837
Et frugtstykke, by Hanne Hellesen, oil, 1837

Et frugtstykke is an oil painting by the Realist artist Hanne Hellesen. It dates from 1837 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Et frugtstykke, an 1837 oil painting by Danish artist Hanne Hellesen, is a still life composition featuring fruit and a potted pineapple plant. Characterized by muted tones and realistic rendering, the work showcases Hellesen's skill in capturing natural textures and forms.

Subject & Meaning

The painting's subject, a carefully arranged still life, reflects the realism movement's emphasis on everyday subjects. The serene, balanced composition may suggest an appreciation for the quiet beauty of nature, though no deeper symbolic meaning is overtly implied.

Technique & Style

Hellesen employs smooth, even brushstrokes and a restrained color palette dominated by greens, browns, and beiges. While the piece highlights her attention to detail and craftsmanship, it does not prominently feature dramatic chiaroscuro, instead relying on subtle shading to define forms.

History & Provenance

Created in 1837 by Hanne Hellesen, a privately trained artist under Johan Laurentz Jensen, *Et frugtstykke* is now part of the collection at Statens Museum for Kunst. Notably, Hellesen achieved success as a female artist before women's admission to the Royal Danish Academy.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hanne Hellesen

Johanne (Hanne) Hellesen (1801–1844) was a Danish painter who was trained privately under Johan Laurentz Jensen as women had not yet been admitted to the Royal Danish Academy.